greece travel costs

The Cost of Travel in Greece: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

After 12 years of travel and over 90 countries, I have come to the conclusion that Greece is one of the greatest countries in the world.

I love it so much, in fact, that I make the effort to visit at least once every couple of years. And every time I do? I always ensure I visit at least one new part of the country while I’m there.

And so, I’ve spent a significant part of the last decade exploring the beautiful Greek islands.

What is it that pulls me to return to Greece over and over again?

Quite simply, I fell in love with Greek food. If you think you’ve had Greek food before but have yet to travel to Greece: you have the most incredible treat awaiting your arrival. Greek food is divine — it’s so fresh, healthy, and delicious, with the sweetest-tasting tomatoes and the creamiest slabs of feta. I deal with a bunch of health conditions and typically have to stick to a strict diet in order to control them, but for some reason, none of that applies in Greece! I can eat whatever I want there and feel as though I’m thriving . I guess it’s that wonderful Mediterranean diet coming into play.

I could write a love letter to Greek food with just a moment’s notice, but even I can admit the country has so much more to offer than it’s incredible cuisine.

Athens is a wonderful, world-class city full of the most impressive ruins and architecture — ignore the people who say it’s dirty and gritty, as it’s absolutely not and is well-worth visiting. You’ve got dozens upon dozens of islands to explore, from the iconic Santorini and Mykonos to the laidback Ithaca and Kefalonia. The other-worldly Meteora is well-worth a visit, and have you seen the famous shipwreck cove in Zakynthos (pictured below)?

It’s hard to believe one country can offer up so much.

I’ve been fortunate to have spent four months travelling across Greece, and over that time, I’ve been to Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Corfu, Kalamos, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Meganisi, and Ithaca. Every September, I charter a yacht with a group of friends and spend a couple of weeks sailing through the Ionian islands, falling more in love with this part of the world after every visit.

Hopefully my passion for Greece shines through my words, and I can inspire you to visit this amazing country, too. Because the good news is that Greece is relatively inexpensive. And the even-better news is that I can tell you exactly how much it costs to travel there.

I’ve been recording every single cent I spend in the countries I visit from day one of my travels because I want to prove that seeing the world is inexpensive and achievable. I want to be able to give a realistic and accurate look at how much you can expect to spend in each country you visit.

Today, it’s Greece’s turn.

Here’s how much you can expect to spend on a trip to Greece in 2024.

How to Save Money on Flights to/From Greece

My European readers won’t have to worry too much about the cost of flights to Greece, as the wide range of budget airlines means finding something affordable is never too much of a problem. As always, I recommend heading to Skyscanner  to snag yourself a bargain.

If you’re flexible with dates and itinerary, you’ll find the best deals by searching to flights to “Greece” rather than an individual city, as you may find it’s far cheaper to fly into Corfu over Athens, for example. It’s also worth setting your flight departure date to be across an entire month, which you can do with Skyscanner . This will show you the cheapest dates to fly and ensure you have the very best deal possible.

In general, you’ll find that it’s cheapest to fly to Greece outside of high season, which coincides with typical European summer vacation dates (late-June to late-August). May and September are the shoulder season months, and October to March is the official low season, where you’ll find the lowest prices. If you do have the freedom to visit during shoulder season, I highly recommend it, as it’ll mean spending less on flights and accommodation while having to deal with fewer tourists. Shoulder season is my favourite time of year to travel, and it’s worth making the effort to do so in Greece.

What if you’re based in North America?

Fortunately, there are quite a few direct flights running between North America and Greece — while Newark is the only North American airport that offers direct flights year-round, from shoulder-season onwards, you’ll be able to catch flights from/to JFK, Toronto, Montreal, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Washington DC, and Boston.

How to Save Money on Accommodation in Greece

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Couchsurfing exists in Greece , and allows you to stay with a local for free, sleeping on their sofa and enjoying a local’s insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget is tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it.

Housesitting is another option. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while. Trusted Housesitters is one of the best sites for getting started with housesitting.

And finally, if you’re travelling long-term and don’t mind getting your fingers dirty, you could look at WWOOFing or WorkAway as a way to cut down your costs while working on a farm in exchange for accommodation and food. It’s not the most glamorous of experiences, but getting to live for free in a foreign country is an incredible experience, so if you’re backpacking around Europe, this may be the way forward for you.

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are hostels . In Greece, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Greece are slightly cheaper than equivalents in Western Europe, with the big exception being Mykonos and Santorini over the summer, both of which are eye-wateringly expensive (I once paid €72 a night for an 4-bed dorm in Santorini in July!) You can expect to spend around €10-15 for a dorm bed in most spots in Greece, with the price increasing to slightly about €15 a night on the popular islands, national parks, and more tourist-filled areas.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around €25 a night for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find it cheaper to grab some privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.

If you’re an older traveller and put off by the thought of nights spent in hostels, you shouldn’t be! Private rooms are usually very quiet and clean, and most hostels are modern, safe, and centrally located. They tend to have a little more personality than generic hotels, and the staff are fantastic at offering kickass travel advice. As long as you check the reviews of any hostel before booking it to make sure nobody refers to it as a party hostel, you’re all good to make a booking there.

I use HostelWorld to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels, which will usually start at around €50-€150 a night for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location. I always use Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Best Hostels and Guesthouses in Greece

I’ve visited Greece during various stages of my travel career, from a solo backpacker who was travelling on a shoestring budget to part of a couple that was looking for all things private and mid-range. I’ve even travelled on a luxury budget for an anniversary celebration with my partner. In other words, I learned a lot about how to travel affordably through this country in the process.

I always like to share which accommodation I stayed in on my travels, as well as recommend alternatives when mine sucked. Here’s my list of my favourite accommodation options in Greece, listed in Euros:

Athens: €72 a night

You’re not going to find a better hotel in Athens for this low of a price! The Hellenic Hospitality House receives an average rating of 9.8 on Booking from over 1,500 reviews. It’s all of those glowing reviews that led to me booking a stay there. And it was simply phenomenal! It’s located right in the heart of Athens, within walking distance to all of the main attractions. And the staff were amazing, giving restaurant tips, advice on how to make the most of our stay, and even treating us to a coffee on one occasion!

Santorini: €132 a night

Santorini sure is a pricey destination, but that doesn’t mean that you have to obliterate your travel budget in order to visit. I loved my stay at La Belle Vie , and was amazed that you could still land yourself a pool at a property this affordable. Here, it’s all about the central location, the beautiful rooms, the refreshing swimming pool, and the epic sea views. Throw in some wonderful owners and you’ve got yourself a perfect stay in Santorini!

Mykonos: €170 a night

The best properties in Mykonos tend to come in between €150 and €200 a night, and With-Inn fits nicely in the middle of this price range. And just wait until you see the photos of the breakfasts! This property is Greek-owned and run, and the mother puts on a delicious spread of fresh and organic local eats every morning. So good! On top of that, you’ve got a free pick-up and drop-off from the airport and port, excellent views, and such a comfortable bed! This is a great place to stay.

Corfu: €86 a night

I love staying in Sidari in Corfu, and recommend Sidari Beach Hotel while you’re in town. It offers such good value for money for what you get. You’ll be greeted by the most welcoming staff ever who simply cannot do enough for you. The swimming pool is excellent, the breakfast delicious, and you’re located on a quiet beach that, most of the time, you’ll have all to yourselves. What a little slice of paradise.

Crete: €91 a night

If you love your hotels to be quirky, original, and photogenic, you must stay at Pavo Art Hotel in Heraklion Town. I’ve never stayed in such a fun, beautiful property before! The hotel is brand-new and so clean that you’ll feel as though you’re the first guests in the property. It’s also in a great location for exploring Heraklion’s historical attractions. The staff are kind and helpful, and there’s even a free shuttle to the city centre, although I preferred to walk along the waterfront into town each day. All in all, a great place to stay!

Rhodes: €64 a night

If you’re going to be staying in the lovely Rhodes Town, I can’t recommend Hotel Anastasia highly enough. It’s an adorable, family-run guesthouse in the heart of all the action while still remaining quiet. The included breakfast is great, the staff are particularly helpful if you’re keen to book day trips across the island, and the property’s gardens are so beautiful! Rooms are cleaned everyday and overall, it’s great value for money!

How to Save Money on Transportation in Greece

Transportation is fairly inexpensive in Greece, so you won’t need to worry about it upping your travel budget by too much. The best, easiest, and cheapest way to travel around the country is by bus or by ferry.

Athens is home to an impressive metro system, and while the city is pretty walkable, you’ll still probably utilise it every now and then. It’s inexpensive to ride, costing €1.40 for a 90-minute ride, €4.50 for 24 hours of unlimited use, and €9 for a five-day ticket.

If you’re planning on travelling across the mainland, the domestic bus network — KTEL — will take you anywhere you need to go. And I’ll be honest here: while I’d love to tell you that taking the bus in Greece is super-simple, but it’s actually kind of complicated and annoying.

KTEL buses are run by dozens of individual bus companies, and each company has their own website. And so, to travel from town to town, you can’t simply head to a main KTEL website. Instead, you’ll need to find the specific KTEL website for the province you’ll be travelling from.

If you love trains, like I do, you’re not going to be impressed with the rail infrastructure in Greece. Travel between Athens and Thessalonki on a train but that’s about it. You can book a ride through TrainOSE .

If you’re anything like me, though, you can’t imagine visiting Greece and not  spending time on some of its gorgeous islands. In this case, you’re going to want to hop from the mainland to paradise. Many of the popular Greek islands are home to an airport, which makes travel particularly easy. You’ll be able to jet straight into Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Kefalonia, Lefkada, Zakynthos, Rhodes, Kos, Karpathos, Skiathos, Lesvos, Lemnos, Samos, and Crete! Phew! That’s quite the list of destinations!

If you’re on a tight budget, however, you’ll most likely opt to travel by ferry. Ferries leave from Piraeus, in Athens, and typically cost around €40, regardless of where you’ll be travelling to. I use Ferry Hopper to book my ferries in Greece.

When it comes to hiring a car to drive around Greece, I’d recommend against doing so. Roads are poor quality, local drivers can be chaotic, and on-street parking is tough to find. If you’re still keen, though, I hired my car out of Preveza Airport through my favourite RentalCars .com , a comparison search engine that brings up the best deals from all the popular providers.

You can also hire scooters in Greece, so if you’re competent on two wheels, you may want to opt for this instead! I’ve done this throughout the Ionian, as well as in Crete, and had so much fun! You don’t typically need to have a motorbike license to hire a scooter (although keep in mind that this means your travel insurance won’t cover you if you wreck the bike or injure yourself!)

Here are some of the typical transportation costs you can expect to run into while in Greece:

• Train from Athens to Thessaloniki: €52.50
• Ferry from Athens to Mykonos: €36
• Ferry from Athens to Santorini: €40
• Ferry from Athens to Chania (Crete): €40

How to Save Money on Food in Greece

You’ve already seen me spiral off into a soliloquy on the merits of Greek food, so I’m excited to dive into one of my favourite subjects in even more depth.

The first thing to know is that food is inexpensive in Greece, and I rarely spend more than €10 a meal. Still, there are plenty of opportunities for cutting costs as you travel around this wonderful country.

Cooking is always going to be more affordable than eating out, so if you’re willing to sacrifice some meals on your vacation, this is a great way to keep on track with your budget. Hostels will usually give you access to a shared kitchen, and if you’re opting to stay in an Airbnb, you can check that it allows you access to the kitchen. If that’s the case, you can head to a local market (a great cultural experience) and stock up on fish, vegetables, and gigantic slabs of feta fruits, and spend far less on your meals than you would at a restaurant.

Many accommodation providers will offer free breakfasts within their room rate, so if that’s the case, I always recommend opting for it, unless it reveals itself to be terrible on your first morning’s breakfast. In general, though, the food is so delicious in Greece that I’ve yet to stumble upon a bad hotel breakfast.

You’re also going to want to opt for a larger lunch and a smaller dinner. Most restaurants charge less for their lunch menus, even though they’re serving the exact same meal for lunch and dinner. If you can eat a bigger meal for lunch, you can then get by with a much smaller one for dinner and save money through doing so.

In general, you should expect to spend the following on each meal:

Breakfast:   €5  each for a local breakfast;  €10  each for something in a hipster cafe.

What can you expect from breakfasts in Greece? Often, the first meal of the day is the simplest, and you can expect to delight in fresh breads, olive oils, tangy cheeses, pastries, and plenty of coffee. Greek yoghurt is famous, so you can definitely expected to be presented with some for breakfast, usually drizzled with beautiful Greek honey — the sweetness balances out the tanginess of the dairy.

In cafes, you might want to order a spinach pie, or spanakopita, which comprises a crispy casing that encases spinach, feta, and plenty of local herbs.

If you require something a little more filling, try strapatsada or  kagiana s (the dish has two names). It’s a plate of scrambled eggs, with fresh tomatoes, feta, and herbs folded in. It’s simple yet delicious.

Lunch: €6 for a Greek salad; €10 for a souvlaki meal

Lunches in Greece are — you guessed it! — delicious. Personally, I aim to eat either a Greek salad or souvlaki for lunches — both of which are super-affordable and filling.

Dinner: €10  each if you’re on a budget,  €18  each for a mid-range restaurant,  €35  each for something higher-end.

What about tipping? In most restaurants you’ll frequent, tipping will be welcome but not in any way expected. So don’t panic — it isn’t seen as offensive if you don’t tip! And likewise, it won’t be viewed as offensive if you do. Expect to pay 10-15% in any fancy restaurants you head to, but anything laidback and local won’t require you to pay extra.

I don’t often have much success with this suggestion, but I do recommend keeping an eye on your drink consumption while travelling in Greece. Alcohol is obviously a big budget buster on the road, so if you’re happy to substitute the sodas, juices, and booze for bottled water, you’ll save a ton of money.

If you’re determined to jump headfirst into the Greek food scene and don’t want to spend your vacation cooking, you should look to eat at the tavernas as opposed to the fancier restaurants. Tavernas are small family-run restaurants that offer big dishes and low prices, and they’re just as tasty as the more expensive options.

You can always ask the locals for food recommendations, too! Ask at your accommodation for recommendations on the best budget eats, or simply walk around and see which restaurants are full of locals.

Here are some typical prices of food and drink in Greece to help you budget better:

• Pint of draught beer:  €2.00
• A bottle of house wine in a restaurant:  €10
• A slice of pizza: €2.50
• Sandwich from a deli for lunch: €4
• A 30 cm pizza for dinner: €11.00
• Seafood dish in a fancy restaurant:  €20.00
• Cappuccino in an expat area of town:  €1.50
• Litre of milk:  €0.75
• A loaf of bread:  €0.80
• A dozen eggs:  €1.80
• 1 kilogram of tomatoes:  €1.40
• 1 kilogram of potatoes:  €0.80
• A 1.5l bottle of water:  €0.90
• A risotto for lunch:  €10.50
• A steak dinner: €17.50

How to Save Money on Activities in Greece

We’ve covered accommodation, transportation, and food, but let’s face it: you’re not going to have the trip of a lifetime if you skip out on entrance fees and activities! Here’s a detailed breakdown of some of the costs you’re likely to encounter while travelling around Greece:

• Athens: Acropolis and 6 Archaeological Sites Combo Ticket : €35
• Athens: Full-Day Meteora Trip by Train : €98
• Athens: Delphi Guided Day Trip with Pickup & Optional Lunch : €87
• Santorini: Volcanic Islands Cruise with Hot Springs Visit : €26
• Santorini: Guided Wine Tasting Tour with Pickup : €140
• Santorini: Catamaran Cruise with Lunch & Open Bar : €100
• Zakynthos Island: Navagio Shipwreck Beach & Blue Caves Tour : €45
• Mykonos Cooking Class : €140
• From Thessaloniki: Day Trip to Dion and Mount Olympus : €55

Miscellaneous Items to Buy for a Trip to Greece

A Greece guidebook : A guidebook will give you an in-depth look into Greece’s culture, suggest the perfect itineraries for the amount of time you have, and offer recommendations for where to eat and what’s worth doing. I like Lonely Planet guidebooks, and their Greek offering receives great reviews . Readers of Never Ending Footsteps receive a 10% discount on Lonely Planet purchases by buying through the above link.

A dry bag :  Greece is all about the water, so I highly recommend packing  a dry bag  to take with you. A dry bag has saved me while travelling on so many occasions:

• On a kayaking trip from Koh Yao Noi to Koh Nok, a freak wave splashed over me, as well as my camera and phone. Had I not had them in a dry bag, the water damage would have likely destroyed them.
• On a ferry ride in Thailand, the boat sprung a leak and began to sink. I was able to put my laptop, camera, hard drive, passport, and money in my dry bag, seal it up, and know that they’d stay safe and dry if the worst were to happen.
• I chartered a yacht in Greece and relied heavily on my dry bag while I was there. When mooring in tiny bays, I was able to fill my dry bag with my camera, towel, and sunscreen, jump in the sea, and swim to the nearest empty beach without worrying about keeping my belongings dry.
• I also think dry bags are fantastic for solo travellers on beach days. It’s tough going to the beach when you’re travelling alone because you’ll need to bring nothing with you, risk getting robbed while you’re in the ocean, or stay on the sand at all times. If you have a dry bag, you can fill it up with your valuables and take it for a swim with you, rather than leaving them on your towel and hoping nobody will grab them.

I love all things Sea to Summit, and after trying several of their dry bags out, my champion is the  Ultra-Sil 8L  — it’s durable, thin, lightweight, and has never let me down.

Travel insurance : If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by kidney stones and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died while you’re overseas and now you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use and recommend SafetyWing for travel throughout Greece. They’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. Finally, they have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always a bonus.

How Much it Costs to Travel in Greece

I always like to share my own personal expenses when travelling in a country, as I think it helps you figure out what you should be expecting to pay each day while you’re there. A list of expenses is great and helpful, of course, but putting them all together in order to come up with a reasonable estimate can be trickier.

Here’s what I’ve spent on average over my many months in Greece:

Accommodation: €45 per day  Transportation: €7 per day Food: €23 per day Activities: €2 per day

My average daily cost of travel in Greece is therefore: €77 per day . Not bad at all!

Related Articles on Greece 3️⃣ How to Spend Three Days in Athens, Greece 🇬🇷  11 Highlights From My First Trip to Greece 🧳  A Carry-On Packing List for Sailing in the Greek Islands ⛵️  Conquering My Fear of Sailing in Greece

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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Thanks for sharing your Greece trip. If I have only 2 weeks, which islands do I go and your suggested itinerary.

Thanks and happy travelling!

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How much Does a Trip to Greece Cost? (2024 Travel Budget)

Is a vacation to the Greek Islands on your bucket list? I always knew the Greek Islands were expensive but until I started researching our trip to Greece costs, I didn’t realize quite how pricey a vacation to Greece can be.

After spending 10 days in Greece for our special anniversary trip, we have a great handle on what you will need to save for your Greek Islands travel budget (hint: it depends on which island you visit!)

The Greek Islands have never been a budget destination, but these days if you want to go the luxury route for a special occasion trip (like our 20th-anniversary trip!), it is downright expensive. So before you pull the trigger and book a Greek vacation, make sure you figure out your own Greece trip cost.

In this Greece travel budget, I’ve broken down your estimated expenses including airfare, intracountry transportation, accommodations, food, and activities. Given four-star level accommodations, a total Greece vacation budget when visiting Greece in the summer for a total of 12 nights for two adults would be $9,710 , or about $405 per person, per day . But read on for a detailed breakdown and how you can save money on your trip.

How to Plan Your Trip to Greece

Planning a trip to Greece can get complicated. Coming from the USA, it is easiest to fly directly into Athens, but then if you are visiting the Greek Islands, you need to figure out how to get to the various islands.

You can also fly into one island and out of another, but you will need to connect somewhere in Europe, and depending on the day you leave, there can also be long layovers. And, you still need to worry about getting ferry tickets or flights from place to place. Plus ferry tickets can book up early so you need to plan in advance.

WHere in Greece do you Want to go?

Your first step in planning your Greek Islands vacation is to choose your destinations and figure out how long you want to spend in each location. Are you mostly interested in archeological sites and learning about the Ancient Greeks? Or do you want to relax by the beach for most of your holiday in Greece?

Which islands you choose makes a difference too. Santorini and Mykonos are notoriously expensive. Santorini is popular with couples and Mykonos is known as a party island.

Lesser visited islands like Naxos are much less expensive and family-friendly, but some may not have as much tourist infrastructure built out. Other islands like Crete are so large you need a week or more just for one island.

WHen do you Want to Travel?

Will you travel in the high season and deal with the crowds, or opt for the less crowded shoulder seasons? Or maybe you want to save money and visit the mainland during the low season and potentially navigate closures, cooler weather, and limited services on the islands?

All of these factors make calculating what a trip to Greece costs a challenge. But to make your budgeting job a little easier, I’ve put together a sample travel budget for your reference.

Greece Budget Assumptions

Our trip was a splurge vacation to celebrate a milestone birthday and anniversary, but I’ve based this budget on a more moderate trip. I’ve tried to provide some comparisons if you are looking to upgrade to luxury properties.

For simplicity, I’ve also used U.S. dollars and typically use xe.com to get up-to-date currency conversion rates. Luckily right now the U.S. dollar is strong against the Euro so, for Americans, your money goes further.

In order to determine what a trip to Greece costs, I’ve based this Greece travel budget on the following assumptions:

• Pricing for two adults
• Traveling from a major airport hub on the east coast of the United States (e.g. JFK)
• Travel during the summer
• A trip of 12 nights
• Stops in Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete — these popular destinations were chosen as they might typically be included in a Greek vacation package

To create your budget and a general idea of how much it costs to go to Greece, I’ve included the following:

• Approximate price of flights (both international and in-country)
• The average cost of a hotel in Athens and in popular island destinations
• Transportation costs to get around Greece
• How much money to set aside for special experiences, like a day trip from Athens or a sunset cruise around Santorini

Keep in mind that if you are traveling on a tight budget, a great way to reduce costs is to stick to the mainland and shorten your trip. You can also choose to visit some of the less expensive islands, like Naxos , Paros, and others. By making those adjustments, you can easily cut the cost of your accommodations practically in half.

How much does a trip to Greece cost?

Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Prices are subject to change.

The costs in this post have been organized by airfare, accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. As I mentioned, I included some of our actual costs as a comparison.

Airfare to Greece

One of the reasons that airfare eats up a lot of money when budgeting for a trip to Greece is that there are a limited number of direct flights from the U.S. to Athens, and even fewer in the off-season and shoulder seasons.

If you don’t live near one of a handful of airports, you’ll have to connect elsewhere in the U.S. or Europe before arriving in Athens, and likely pay even more to do so. For daily direct service to and from Athens in July and August (peak season), the main options at present are American Airlines from Philadelphia, Delta from Boston, JFK, and Atlanta, and Emirates and United from Newark.

Average flight prices during this time of year are $1,000 per person . Prices go up the closer you get to summer so book early if you are visiting Greece in the summer!

If $1,000 per person for the international flight is beyond reach, be aware that the price typically drops to $500-900 in the low and shoulder seasons (fall, winter, and early spring). However, some resorts on the islands won’t be open from November – April, and some ferry services will not operate on a daily schedule, so it will take some finesse in planning to still see everything you’d like to see.

Given the high cost of airfare, it would be a good time to save your credit card points or airline miles for this trip or consider flying a budget airline that connects somewhere in Europe. I also highly recommend signing up for a membership to  Going  to get alerts on flight deals and set up preferences for your dream destinations.

If you want to find the best way to accumulate points and miles through credit card spending and sign up bonuses, I’d suggest downloading the  Travel Freely app  to track your credit cards and learn how to earn points.

Intra-Island Flights

Most people traveling to Greece and venturing beyond Athens will end up on another flight at some point, especially if they wish to visit Crete. The quickest ferry from Crete to Athens is 7 hours.

If you are planning on primarily visiting the Greek Islands, pay attention to your flight times. I’ve found that it can be hard to get into Athens early enough to catch a ferry to Santorini or Mykonos on the same day if you are connecting in Europe. This will force you to spend a night in Athens despite your plans. If Athens isn’t a priority, you may want to fly directly to one of the island airports.

The same will be true on the return trip. Depending on how far the island is away from Athens, it may be a challenge to get back to Athens in time for your flight. Especially considering that Greek ferries don’t exactly have a reputation for running on time. That may not be a risk you want to take.

Therefore you may need to return to Athens the night before your flight unless you book a multi-city flight and return from a different island. I also found that some return flights from Athens have exceedingly long layovers on certain days of the week so this is another thing to keep an eye on when you are booking your flights.

The cost for a one-way short flight between Athens and Crete is less than $100 per person (usually $50-75) so this typically makes the most sense for that particular journey.

For this post, I assumed visitors would spend $1,000 per person to get to and from Athens from the U.S., and then another $150 total on a one-way domestic flight back to Athens from Crete.

Total airfare cost: $2,150

Accommodations Costs in Greece

In order to estimate accommodation costs, I allocated two nights in Athens at the start of the trip, two nights in Mykonos, two nights in romantic Santorini, five nights in Crete, and then a final night back in Athens before your return journey back to the United States.

If you don’t have two weeks to enjoy Greece, or you need to cut costs, there are many ways to adjust this itinerary. For example, if the beach isn’t a big priority, you could skip Crete or opt for a few days on the island of Naxos or Paros instead of Crete (they are much closer to Athens and much cheaper than Santorini or Mykonos).

Alternatively, if spending time on the beach and enjoying views of the Aegean Sea is your top priority when planning your trip, then consider simplifying your itinerary by only visiting Athens plus one of the islands in Greece, instead of spending time island hopping around to different locations.

In Athens, expect to pay $500-700 or more per night for a room at a 5-star property in the summer such as the Hotel Grand Bretagne . Pro tip: we used Marriott Bonvoy points to book a night at the Hotel Grand Bretagne.

More basic 4-star accommodation is around $200-450 per night. VRBO options or budget hotels often price out under $140 per night but do choose neighborhoods carefully to ensure you are in a safe area convenient for sightseeing.

Mykonos is one of the most expensive destinations in Greece, especially when it comes to accommodation. Five-star properties are easily $1,000 or more per night in the summer.

Four-star hotels are around $300-600 per night. When we were planning to do one night in Mykonos, I found a bit of a “deal” at the Nissaki Mykonos for 420 per night. Anything below 400 euros will likely be a huge sacrifice in quality and amenities (like a pool) or in location. But that isn’t to say that there aren’t budget properties available.

In Santorini, 5-star hotels such as the Canaves Oia start around $1200 or more per night in the summer. And those gorgeous suites with personal plunge pools or jacuzzis? You could potentially spend $2,000 a night. The town of Oia is the most expensive (but offers the stunning sunsets and blue-domed churches you’ve likely come here to see).

We went with the slightly more affordable property of the Canaves chain, the Canaves Oia Epitome , and the honeymoon suite with the plunge pool was a mere $1,200 a night. It feels insane to spend that much on a hotel room but as I said, this trip was a splurge celebration for us. You can find upscale boutique hotels for less, such as the Vedema Resort , where you may be able to find a room for under $500.

Fira is where the ferry port is located and is a bit cheaper, with easy access to Oia by bus or taxi. A 4-star hotel in Fira such as the Aria Suites will be around $400-500 in the summer.

Even a very basic 3-star hotel in Fira is $300+ per night during peak season. Again, Airbnb/VRBO can offer much cheaper options, but many require a three-night stay minimum, so it may require some itinerary adjustment. If you are booking a vrbo in Santorini , be sure to look carefully at their cancellation policy and any additional cleaning or service fees they may tack on.

Crete is the largest Greek island, and it offers a lovely balance of beautiful beaches plus historically and culturally interesting sites. It also has a well-developed tourism infrastructure and plenty of family-friendly resorts to choose from.

These are all reasons Crete works so well as a home base for a lengthier stay during a trip to Greece. Families can expect to pay $200-500 per night in summer for a 4-star resort or boutique hotel on or near the beach such as the Ammos Hotel or Porto Elounda Deluxe Resort .

For a higher-end luxury option, 5-star properties such as the Daios Cove Resort run $500-700 in July and August.

One cost-saving tip is to be aware of affiliations with U.S. chains like Marriott and Hilton. Many Greek hotels and resorts are affiliated with these brands, so guests can earn a lot of points or use existing points they may already have.

As I mentioned before, you could also skip Crete and choose a closer island in the Cyclades and stay on Naxos or Paros. We didn’t have quite as much time so we opted for five nights on Naxos at the Virtu Suites . We got a deluxe sea view suite for just about $700 per night.

To calculate approximate accommodation costs, we assumed booking at 4-star properties in each location, so a $400 average nightly rate was used. You can obviously bring costs down considerably if you book an Airbnb for certain portions of the trip (or the entire trip), or redeem some hotel points for part of your stay. Costs increase dramatically if you opt for a 5-star experience, paying upwards of $1,000 per night in some locations.

Total Accommodation Cost: $4,800 for 12 nights

Transportation Costs within Greece

The most efficient route for getting to these four locations is to take the ferry from Athens to Mykonos, then a ferry from Mykonos to Santorini, and a final ferry from Santorini to Crete. Most people would then fly back to Athens from Crete for their return flight to the U.S., but an overnight ferry is an option for that particular journey.

The cost of the ferry and the flight are similar. You can use FerryHopper to check rates and schedules for the various ferry lines and book tickets online.

Each of the ferry journeys outlined above is between two-to-three hours and ferry tickets cost around $20-90 each (depending on if you take a fast ferry or not.) You can save a little if you travel on slower ferries or not at peak times, but it’s usually not significant. You can also choose first-class tickets or VIP tickets with priority boarding and seating, but that will cost a bit more.

Keep in mind when planning your trip that you will need to book ferries at least a couple of months in advance as they do sell out and you don’t want to end up stuck without a way to get from island to island.

For those who choose to travel to the typical destinations in Greece (Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, for example, as outlined in this post), then a car rental isn’t necessary. Hotels can arrange transfers or I used Welcome Pickups to schedule transfers to/from the port in many destinations and it worked perfectly every time and we were relieved to not have to wait in a long taxi line.

If you want to do some off-the-beaten-path exploration, the cost of a private driver in Greece is typically $200-400 per day. On some of the islands, you can also rent an ATV to explore, but locals strongly advise against ATVs as they see many fatal accidents each year. On our trip, we just took taxis, a hotel shuttle, or booked private tours that helped us explore more of the islands.

For budgeting purposes, let’s assume three ferry services at $90 per person per ride, plus one day of a private driver service or day trip at $200, and an additional $200 for public transport and taxi fares. For a two-week trip, this is actually quite affordable. Opting to stay in the center of walkable cities and full-service beach resorts is key to this cost savings.

Total Car Rental/Transportation Cost: $940

Food Costs in Greece

If you’re suffering from sticker shock after reading about the cost of flights and accommodations, you’ll be pleased to learn that Greece is one of the more affordable European countries as far as food and dining out. First, breakfast is included at most hotels and resorts (but do confirm that before booking.) If not, expect to pay less than $5 per person for coffee and a pastry at a cafe each morning.

The key to saving money on Greek food is to eat at local establishments (and you probably came for the fresh seafood and local food anyway) or try some street food. A large lunch at a taverna is usually $10-15 per person, or you can just grab fast food sandwiches or a light bite and feta cheese from bakeries or cafes to enjoy a picnic on the beach or between sightseeing adventures.

A hearty sandwich or cheap gyros will be less than $5 from local shops or stands. For dinner, expect to only pay about $15-20 per person for a multi-course dinner at local restaurants. Of course, this all goes out the window if you are dining at a luxury hotel or trying a degustation menu (in Santorini an experience like that with wine pairing can run you $500+ for two!)

A few budget busters in Greece, however, are cocktails or imported wine. Best to stick to beer or house wine if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on drinks.

We assumed couples would spend per day on $20 lunch and $40 per day on dinner, but again, you could easily spend less if you didn’t sit down for a full-service meal for both each day. I’ve also budgeted for one fine dining dinner at an additional $100.

Total Food Cost: $820

Tours and Activities Costs in Greece

Another cost-saving perk of a trip to Greece is that much of what you came to see is free, like a day spent enjoying one of the spectacular beaches or wandering the beautiful side streets and alleys of Santorini. That said, you’ll definitely want to budget for a few memorable activities.

A tour of Athens is a must, in my opinion, especially for history buffs. These can be chosen to match your interests or needs, like a general walking tour as a way of getting oriented on your first day, or to dig deep and learn more about important archaeological sites like the Acropolis, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, or even just a food tour . Prices for a half-day tour in Athens are around $97 per person.

An Athens sightseeing pass while in Athens might also make sense if you want to visit attractions like the Acropolis Museum, as most of the landmark historical sites do charge admission. A pass usually results in cost savings for those who plan to see several of the included sites. The price is around $40 per adult.

A sunset cruise while in Santorini, Mykonos, or Crete is usually a highlight for visitors to Greece as well. Done as a small group, it’s usually around $200 for a couple, which sometimes includes a meal or drinks. Done privately, expect to pay around $500-1,000 or more.

Also on Crete, many visitors enjoy a guided tour of the Palace of Knossos or perhaps olive oil tasting. Again, expect to pay $200-300 for a small group experience or $500+ for a private excursion. There are also some food tours or wine tours on Santorini and Naxos that can make for a fun afternoon. We did a half-day wine-tasting tour in Santorini for around $350 and a full-day food, wine, and island tour on Naxos for closer to $800.

For this Greece trip budget, I estimated $1,000, based on three tours or excursions.

Total Activity Cost: $1,000

Total Greece Trip Budget

Given these parameters, a total Greece vacation budget when visiting Greece in the summer for a total of 12 nights for two adults would be $9,710 . However, if you can find a way to use miles or points for airfare or hotels, a trip to Greece can actually be pretty inexpensive.

If spending nearly $10,000 on a two-week trip is beyond your reach, just know that there are more affordable ways to visit Greece. If you have the flexibility to travel from April through June, for example, you may find flight prices and accommodation costs to be significantly less (and even better, fewer crowds!)

Also, choosing home rentals through online booking sites is often half the cost of a hotel stay, especially if you are willing to forego amenities like a pool. Or, opt to visit less popular islands or locations, instead of pricey destinations like Mykonos and Santorini.

Don’t forget to also budget for travel insurance for a trip to Greece!

Traveling to Greece?

• Be sure to check out our 10-day Greece itinerary
• See where we stayed in Santorini
• See where we stayed in Naxos
• Purchase a complete Greece Travel Guide

Looking for other Trip Budgets?

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: November 23, 2023

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Home » Europe » Travel Expensive

Is Greece Expensive? The Cost to Travel Greece and How to Do it Cheap!

With turquoise beaches, sun-kissed ruins and delicious Mediterranean cuisine, Greece really is the whole dream-holiday package. Let’s not forget its buzzing arts scene and breathtaking mountains either! It’s been at the top of travelers’ bucket lists for centuries and continues to offer a picture-perfect vacation!

Many people think that the cost of a trip to Greece is very expensive, mainly because of all the beachside resorts and luxury yachts that pop up on Instagram. The truth is, Greece is actually very affordable, especially compared to other European countries.

When traveling mindfully while keeping an eye on your expenses, Greece can even be the dream for every budget backpacker. Staying in hostels, eating Greek fast food, and using public ferries will give you a great vacation for not a lot of money.

So, is Greece expensive? Not  if  you take care of your money! Sticking to the following tips will help you have an amazing holiday on a budget, so you can fully enjoy Greece, without a single worry about spending too much.

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So, How Much Does a Trip to Greece Cost on Average?

Cost of flights to greece, price of accommodation in greece, cost of transport in greece, cost of food in greece, price of alcohol in greece, cost of attractions in greece, additional costs of travel in greece, some final tips for saving money in greece, so is greece expensive, in fact.

Your Greece vacation cost depends on many different factors. You’ll need to consider total accommodation costs, flights, local transport, food prices, food tours, activities, alcohol, and a few other expenses. Fortunately, this post will break down the rough amount for each category.

All Greece travel costs in this post are estimates and are subject to change. Prices are listed in US Dollars (USD).

Greece uses the Euro (EUR). As of April 2022, the exchange rate is 1 USD = 0.92 EUR.

To keep things simple, I have summarized the general costs for a trip to Greece. Take a look at the table below:

2 Weeks in Greece Travel Costs

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $120 – $1730 USD for a roundtrip ticket.

Flight prices change, sometimes dramatically, depending on the time of year. October tends to be the cheapest month to fly to Greece. You can expect to pay a lot more during the high season (usually the summer months).

Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) is the country’s busiest airport. If you’re visiting one of the Greek islands, it may be cheaper to fly to Athens, and then get a cheap flight with a regional budget airline, or even take the ferry.

So, how much does it cost to go to Greece? Find a quick breakdown below:

• New York to Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos: 345 – 500 USD
• London to Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos: 91 -167 GBP
• Sydney to Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos: 962 – 2553 AUD
• Vancouver to Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos: 1159 -1995 CAD

While these are the averages, there are some sneaky ways to save money on airfare. For instance, you can avoid travel agents’ fees by booking your own flights with comparison sites such as Skyscanner .

If you need to travel via another city, buy two separate flights as it may be cheaper (eg. if you’re traveling via London, book one flight to London and another to Athens). Remember to book ahead as airfare tends to get pricier the closer it gets to the departure date.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $15-$45 USD per night

Accommodation costs in Greece is pretty affordable. However, prices get steeper as you venture away from the mainland and head for popular Greek islands like Mykonos, especially during high season when tourism is booming. There are amazing locations you will want to see, so it’s not that easy to decide where to stay in Greece .

So, how much should you expect to pay for your accommodation in Greece? The cost will depend on what type of place you want to stay in. Shared dorms in hostels are a great option for backpackers and travelers on a budget. If you prefer to live more independently and with a bit more privacy, then you’re best off with an Airbnb.

Hostels in Greece

Hostels are undoubtedly the best way to keep your accommodation expenses low. There are an incredible amount of amazing hostels all over Greece . The average cost is around $15 USD per night, however, this can get even cheaper. Hostels are a perfect option for solo travelers looking to meet like-minded people. Lots of hostels run a variety of social activities, so you’ll be sure to find a lot of friends

Greece has a nice variety of hostels, especially in the main cities like staying in Athens and Thessaloniki. Some offer just the bare basics, but many go out of their way to make you feel at home.

The very best of the best are these three:

• Bedspot Hostel – This Santorini hostel is close to iconic Perissa Beach and their hospitality is absolutely amazing.
• Francesco’s – You may feel like you got the wrong address when you arrive at this hostel because it looks quite fancy. The budget-price and excellent staff make this hostel a favorite.
• Athens Backpackers – With a prime location in the heart of the historical center and spacious, clean rooms, Athens Backpackers has it all.

Airbnbs in Greece

There are many amazing Airbnbs available in Greece, which are especially fitting for solo travelers or couples that want a bit more privacy. The prices vary, but you can easily find an Airbnb for an average price of $44 USD per night.

Staying in a private apartment is a great way to enjoy a bit more luxury, quiet, and space, without having to empty your pockets completely. Having your own kitchen and cooking rather than going out will also help you save some money. An Airbnb is also a unique opportunity to see the inside of a local home. Your host will likely offer you lots of insider tips!

I’ve listed three of the best Airbnb’s in Greece:

• Converted Cave in Crete – This unique studio apartment was built around an ancient cave outside the charming town of Chania. The views of the countryside and sea are unbelievable.
• Central Athenian Apartment with Views – This place is in the heart of Athens’ historical center and offers a view of the Acropolis from the balcony. It’s been renovated and in a very quiet neighborhood.
• Studio in the heart of Mykonos – This rare find accommodates four guests in a bright studio. The location, right beside the iconic windmills, is the real gem!

Hotels in Greece

Hotels are certainly the most luxurious, and therefore the most expensive, accommodation in Greece. The nightly rate usually starts at $45 but can skyrocket up to hundreds in places like Santorini and Mykonos which can be quite expensive .

Of course, there are perks to staying in a hotel. Housekeeping, amenities and private rooms are just some of the comforts you can expect. Overall, if you want a break from daily chores like cooking or cleaning, hotels are for you!

However, if you’re on a budget, this might not be the best option for you (unless you find a budget hotel). Check out these three affordable hotels:

• Minoa Athens Hotel – With an affordable rate, a three-star rating and a location in the historical heart of Athens, this hotel is the real deal. Make sure to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
• Castellum Suites – This characterful four-star hotel in Rhodes Old Town offers lots of comfort. It’s also in a great location, near the old Palace of the Grand Master, and a peaceful garden.
• Orestias Kastorias – The friendly staff and impeccable cleanliness of this two-star hotel in Thessaloniki (Greece’s second main city) make it a popular option. It also offers airconditioning.

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ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0 – $50 USD per day

Costs on getting around can vary depending on how you travel. This is particularly true for transportation costs. Getting around Greece is generally affordable.

You won’t need any money for transport when walking around the city center. When it comes to long-distance travel, from city to city, you can expect a pretty low cost as well. If you want to have a look at the Greek islands, taking the ferry is always going to be much cheaper than choosing the airplane.

Although it doesn’t enjoy the reputation for efficiency that its fellow European countries do, Greece still offers a comprehensive public transport network. This includes bus, train, ferry, and planes.

Train Travel in Greece

Trains aren’t as popular as buses when it comes to getting around Greece, and they’re not the cheapest option either. They’re run by OSE, the national railway company . Due to recent economic trouble, many routes have been canceled and comfort isn’t first-class.

The train line between Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as the one between Athens and Patra, remains in use and quite popular. This means that there are plenty of places you can take some day trips from Athens too as well, which is a great way to see a lot on a budget.

Expect to pay $50 USD or more for the ride between Athens and Thessaloniki.

To save money on train travel, consider booking an overnight journey. It’s significantly cheaper and can save you the cost of accommodation for that night. The price of a journey between Athens and Thessaloniki, for instance, drops to $27.50 USD!

It also helps to check out prices online ahead of time so that you can choose the cheapest trip.

Additionally, there are rail passes that you can make use of. The Eurail Greece Pass offers unlimited train travel between Athens, Thessaloniki, and Meteora. There are various options (all are for travel on non-consecutive days within one month):

• 3-day pass: $139 USD
• 5-day pass: $202 USD
• 6-day pass:$232 USD
• 8-day pass: $286 USD

Bus Travel in Greece

Buses are the true stars of the Greek transport network, as they will reach even the remotest mountainside village. However, comfort levels vary (let’s be honest, no one likes sitting on the bus for a long time), especially in quieter areas, and they are quite slow. Nevertheless, taking the bus offers some epic views, and it’s also a great chance to meet locals.

How expensive is it to travel by bus? It’s actually very affordable. It’s around $7.70 USD for 62 miles. That works out to  $31 USD from Athens to Thessaloniki. Within cities like Athens, tickets cost $1.55 USD.

You can often save about 20% of the price if you book your ticket online. The bus network is run by KTEL, which has regional offices with their own websites. Although you’ll find the timetable online, you won’t always have the option to purchase online tickets.

Try to read up on the journey ahead of time. Long-distance buses, in particular, have odd routes. It may seem bizarre to be dropped along the side of the highway, but this actually serves as a transfer point to another bus. If you fail to get off, you will have to pay for an extra ticket, so be prepared

There’s another rule to bus travel. Officially, luggage should be weighed and excess should be charged but this doesn’t always happen. Still, it won’t hurt to find out the limit ahead of time and stick to it.

All in all, traveling through Greece by bus might not be the fastest option, but it’s definitely the most affordable one.

Getting Around Cities in Greece

Most of the attractions in the main cities are within walking distance to each other so you won’t have to rely on public transport, especially if you’re staying in the city center.

However, Greece’s cities do have well-developed public transport networks, comprising the underground system (the metro), the suburban railway, trams, and buses.

All in all, there are a number of options for getting around:

• Metro – Trains come by every five minutes during peak houses.  Expect to pay around $1.55 USD for a one-way ticket that covers a 90-minute journey across all forms of public transport.
• Suburban Railway – These lines are useful if you’re traveling further out, such as to Piraeus from Athens. The $1.55 USD ticket for a 90-minute journey applies to these trains, as well.
• Bus – In Thessaloniki, where the metro is still under construction, and on the Greek islands, the bus is your go-to. The usual $1.55 USD is applicable.
• Taxi – Taxis are plentiful and convenient. It’s about $0.80 USD per mile and the minimum fare is $3 USD.
• Rideshares – Uber is available, as is the local version which is called Taxibeat. You can pay around $5-$8 USD for a 2.5-mile ride, depending on the time of day.

Renting a Car in Greece

Renting a car is worth it if you’d like to travel outside of the cities without having to rely on public transport. Yes, it’s definitely not the cheapest option, and some roads are quite steep so you should only consider this option if you’re an experienced driver. However, the independence you get with a car rental will allow you to reach remote archaeological sites and peaceful sandy coves in your own time.

The rental starts from $28 USD per day. Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay for gas too at some point. Most major highways are toll roads which means an additional $22 USD to $33 USD. Then there’s also the cost of an international driving permit, which is around $15 USD.

So, is Greece expensive when you travel by car? It can be, though we found renting a car in Crete to be pretty affordable. Luckily, there are some ways of saving. Your car insurance from home may cover car rental abroad so find out ahead. Some credit cards offer insurance if you book or pay using that card. By returning the car to the same place you picked it up at, you’ll get a small discount.

Want to save some cash and explore Greece by rental car? Use rentalcar.com to find the best deal possible. There are some great prices on the site and they aren’t difficult to find.

Using the Ferries in Greece

Traveling to, or around the Greek Islands is pretty easy and affordable nowadays since the country developed a massive ferry network. You can get from island to island, or even from city to city (these obviously have to be around the coast) without a hustle.

However, there are a couple of things you have to know before booking a ferry ticket.

Think of the ferries as an airplane. There are numerous companies, offering different rates, ship models and routes. Just like on an airplane, you can also book different luxury classes. These range from the typical economy (which is also the most affordable one) to deluxe and first-class (they offer a bit more comfort and service).

Taking the ferries and watching the waves and islands pass by is an incredible and relaxing experience, however, if you decide to take the overnight ferries, you’ll save a lot more money.

There are over 250 destinations. You can know more about the ferry schedule , book tickets, and find prices for each route online.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $11-$55 USD per day

Is Greece cheap when it comes to total food cost? Well, that depends on where and what you’re eating. Greek food is generally affordable, but if you’re eating out regularly, your expenses will shoot through the roof.

Greece is a culinary heaven! Its mild Mediterranean climate means it has an abundance of healthy, tasty products like olives and goat’s cheese. Make sure that you try the country’s top specialties :

• Greek Salad – This stable Greek food dish is much tastier in its homeland where chefs add an abundance of fresh veggies to the salad. Expect to pay $6.60 to $9.90 per dish at a restaurant.
• Baklava – Go into any Greek pastry shop and you’ll find plenty to satisfy your sweet tooth. Baklava remains a classic and costs around $3.70 USD per slice.
• Seafood – With its maritime location, it’s no surprise that Greeks love their seafood. The prices range depending on the fish. Top of the range is red-mullet, which can easily cost $27.50 USD for two people, while squid will cost less than half of that.

To make your food budget go further, follow these tips:

• Cook your own food – You’ll save a ton of money by only going out to restaurants every now and then. Make use of your hostel or Airbnb kitchen instead.
• Only drink during happy hour – This will save you around 50% of the price of alcohol. Just find out what time happy hour is.
• Book accommodation with free breakfast – Many hostels and hotels offer free breakfasts. This could save you around $4.40 USD per day!

Where to Eat Cheaply in Greece

If you’re eating in high-end restaurants twice daily, then you will burst the bank. In order to travel in Greece cheap, go to the budget haunts that offer good-quality, traditional food.

• Souvlaki (skewered pork or chicken wrapped in pita bread) – This is a traditional Greek fast food that costs as little as $1.65 USD! Keep in mind that Souvlaki always comes in form of a wrap! If it’s spread out on a plate, it’s not the traditional dish so check the menu beforehand.
• Tiropita or spanakopita (cheese or spinach pie) – Another delicious Greek meal, these pies are generally under $2.20 USD.

If you decide to cook on your own, you still need to get fresh and tasty products. These are our top two:

• AB – This supermarket chain has about one hundred stores of varying sizes in Athens. It’s good for convenience since it has a few stores in the touristy area, and is very affordable.
• Varvakeios Market – This bustling market offers the best local produce, and an awesome, authentic atmosphere. Look forward to fresh seafood, goat’s cheese and plump olives from the countryside.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE: $0-$20 USD per day

Alcohol and partying can be significant contributors to your total expenses. The government levies a considerable tax on alcohol , especially beer. The most expensive alcohol is cocktails, which normally start around $8.80 USD per drink. Nevertheless, drinking in Greece is an experience. It doesn’t have to be in pricey clubs, but you should try some of the local drinks!

• Ouzo – Ouzo is an anise-flavored aperitif that remains very popular in Greece. It’s served by the glass which actual costs around $6.60 USD. However, this drink is best enjoyed with meze, various side dishes.
• Greek wine – Many regions in Greece produce wine, although the best tend to come from the mainland. Typical prices vary depending on the region. You can expect to pay $4.40 USD per liter in a quiet area like Thessaly, and $11 USD per liter in places like Santorini.

Fortunately, there are a number of ways to save money on alcohol and partying. Happy hour is popular in Athens, and you can save around 50% on the cost of drinks. Partying at less trendy bars will also work out a bit cheaper. Try the area around Gazi, where bars such as Spirtokouto offer plenty of drinks specials.

ESTIMATED EXPENSE : $0-$34 USD per day

Greece truly has something for everyone. The landscape is full of rocky mountains that provide world-class hiking and adventure activities, as well as stunning beaches to relax on.

Not to forget, Greece is also famous for its history and culture. The Ancient Greeks left plenty of architectural masterpieces, while contemporary artists are ensuring that Greece becomes an international art destination.

You can find amazing hotspots all over the country. The Acropolis in Athens is the most famous attraction to visit. The city is filled with numerous historical sites and must-see places. You should also make time for the monasteries of Meteora, magical Delphi and the beautiful beaches of Santorini.

Most of Greece’s historical attractions have entrance fees that can add up. However, if you stick to exploring the countryside and lounging on the beach, you’ll barely pay a dollar!

Save money with these tips:

• Visit archaeological sites across Greece on free days. These include the first Sunday of the month from November to March, as well as the last weekend of September and the 5th of June.
• Book a free tour of Athens with a local via This is My Athens . No donations are expected either.
• The Athens City Pass provides free skip-the-line entry into the major sites, as well as the use of the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus. A two-day pass is $68.20 USD.

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Bear in mind that Greece costs different amounts for different travelers and travel styles. It is dependent on each person and their buying habits. These may include souvenirs, shopping and luggage storage

Souvenirs, in particular, can ruin the budget. You can get the usual touristy magnets for a couple of dollars, but when it comes to taking your favorite Greek wine or pastry home, you may have to break the bank.

To avoid financial chaos, set aside a certain amount of money for these expenses. Around 10% of your total budget should be more than enough.

Tipping in Greece

Tipping is a common practice in Greece. Hospitality professionals will expect tips — but only for good service.

You should tip the porter around $1.10 USD per bag. It’s also common to leave that same amount for the housekeeper.

In restaurants, adding 5-10% to the bill and rounding up is normal. However, some restaurants may already have rounded up the bill for you, in which case you shouldn’t feel obliged to tip.

If you’re on a group tour, tip your guide around $4.40 USD per person. Taxi drivers may expect a tip, but it’s up to you. Around 5-10% should do it.

Get Travel Insurance for Greece

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

You could always do with more ways to keep your Greece costs low. Here are some final tips for traveling on a tight budget :

• Visit remote Greek islands: Stay on Milos , Tinos, and Lesbos, rather than famous Greek islands like Santorini or Mykonos. You’ll get the same beaches, slow pace and Greek hospitality. In fact, it will be better due to the fewer crowds!
• Try Couchsurfing:  This is a great way to save money on accommodation. You can sign up for free on the website and start looking for hosts with similar interests to you. Naturally, it’s amazing for making friends with the locals.
• Book overnight ferries: These are cheaper than daytime ferries and save you money on accommodation. Just remember to bring a pillow and to dress warmly. Blue Star Ferries is one of the companies offering overnight trips.
• Pay in cash: Every time you use your card, your bank probably charges you conversion fees, as well as foreign transaction fees. Greece remains a largely cash-based economy so locals will appreciate the cash and may even be willing to negotiate a discount.
• Have a water bottle : Don’t waste money on plastic, bottled waters; carry your own and refill it in the fountains and the tap. If you’re worried about potable water, get a filtered bottle, like the GRAYL, which filters out 99% of viruses and bacteria.
• Earn money while you travel : Teaching English while traveling is a great way to make ends meet! If you find a sweet gig, you may even end up living in Greece as a digital nomad .
• Become a volunteer : Give back to the local community and, in exchange, you’re room and board will often be covered. It’s not always free, but it’s still a cheap way to travel in Greece.

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Greece may be beautiful, but it is not beyond your budget. It’s actually one of the cheaper destinations in Europe.

If you’re smart with your money, you’ll be able to enjoy the country with very little money:

• Stay in hostels – This will save you so much money, compared to if you stayed in a hotel. It’s also a great way to make friends.
• Eat fast food – Greeks make incredibly tasty fast food that even luxury travelers have to try. Make the most of this and save your money for one or two fancy meals.
• Travel by bus and ferry – These two methods of transport are the ideal companions to any budget traveler. Book an overnight trip and you’ll save even more money.
• Visit Greece during the off or shoulder season – Avoiding the busy summer months of June, July and August also means avoiding high season prices. Additionally, you’ll enjoy milder weather and fewer crowds.
• Book in advance – Prices tend to go up nearer to the time so book your flights, local transport, and accommodation well in advance.

What I think an average daily budget for Greece should be:

With our amazing tips, you can comfortably travel Greece on a budget of $35 to $50 USD per day.

Make sure you are fully prepared for your trip (this can save a lot of money too). Find out what you need to pack for your vacation to Greece.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mathilde Magnier

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This is a great travel article. I am not going anywhere but reading this, I took a trip to Greece!! It all started when I watched a Classical guitar presentation on TV. that was in Santorine. I wanted to know about this beautiful place and found your article. Thanks for writing this! By the way, I live in Florida USA. Barbara

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Greece Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

It’s also super affordable.

You can travel around Greece for a fraction of what you’d spend in Western Europe, which is just one of the many reasons why I absolutely love visiting Greece.

I’ve been to Greece four times and have spent months exploring this country. I cannot say enough good things about it.

Visiting Greece is always the highlight of my summer European travels. There’s just something magical about this country. There’s an energy in the air and you can’t help but think, “Maybe I should never leave?” It sucks you in.

And, while the Greek islands get the most attention, the interior of the country — with its small towns, historic ruins, and mountain hikes — is too often overlooked and underappreciated.

So, while you may have a strong desire to stick to the islands, try to get to some of the places in the interior if you can. You won’t regret it.

This Greece travel guide combines all my knowledge and experience to help you plan an epic, affordable trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Greece

Click Here for Island and City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in greece.

1. Visit the Acropolis

Located in Athens , this magnificent hilltop complex from the 5th century BCE includes ancient buildings and ruins like the temple to Athena and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an excellent place to learn about the city’s history. You’ll also get to enjoy an expansive view of the skyline and the nearby ruins. During the summer, it’s swarming with tourists so get there early. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens. For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 50 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Discover historic Crete

Crete has a long, long history. It was once home to the ancient Minoan civilization (which predated Greek civilization), and you can still visit the Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, the ancient capital of the Minoan empire (also considered the oldest city in Europe). The island is the largest in all of Greece and has beautiful beaches (including a beach with pink sand), plentiful hiking, quaint towns, and delicious food and wine. It’s affordable and because of the island’s size, you can still escape the summer crowds. Don’t skip this island!

3. Hike up Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the legendary home of the Greek gods. Any climb to Mount Olympus starts from the town of Litochoro, 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Thessaloniki. At 2,917 meters (9,570 feet) high, it’s the tallest mountain in Greece. The hike up is both strenuous and mystical. As you climb, it becomes abundantly clear why Greeks thought it was this mountain from which the gods ruled!

4. See Meteora’s monasteries

Meteora is famous for its monasteries that sit atop sheer rock mountains . They are a stunning sight to see and worth the steep trek up to the top. The monasteries date back to the 9th-10th centuries when Orthodox Christian hermit monks isolated themselves on the cliffs and in the many caves in the area. In the 12th century, the monastic community became more organized and in the 14th century the Great Meteoron Monastery was constructed (one of the ones that you can visit today). Although more than twenty monasteries used to perch on these sandstone cliffs, only six remain today. They are still active, with around 50 nuns and 17 monks living here. It’s a 3 EUR entrance fee per monastery.

5. Explore the islands

Other things to see and do in greece, 1. learn some history.

Greece is where western civilization began and everywhere you turn you’ll find ruins that are thousands of years old. Start in Athens with the museums, the Acropolis and surrounding ruins in the Agora, and then set off to explore the ruins of Delphi, Sparta , Corinth, and Crete . There are also great archaeological museums everywhere to see artifacts up close and learn even more. This country is a history lover’s dream!

2. Explore Sparta

Sparta was the ancient rival of Athens and known for its fierce warriors (the entertaining but historically-inaccurate film 300 was based on the Spartans). The city has a long history and plenty of ruins to explore. There is no shortage of things to do , museums to visit, excursions to take, and places to eat when you visit the city. It’s an often-overlooked city even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive southwest of Athens. It’s a great place to learn some history without the crowds.

3. Attend the Athens Epidaurus Festival

Every summer, the Athens Epidaurus Festival hosts concerts and performance theater, including reenactments of famous Greek plays. Started in 1955, it’s one of the country’s top cultural events and runs for the whole summer (May-October). If it coincides with your visit, you’ll see just how proud the Greeks are of their past. Tickets for each performance cost as little as 10 EUR.

4. Soak up the sun in Corfu

The Cyclades Islands may get all the press but sunny Corfu on Greece’s west coast is also a good place to enjoy the beach too. It’s a popular destination for young backpackers, but once you get out of the main town, you can avoid them and their partying ways and get the island to yourself! There are plenty of quiet beaches, ancient ruins, and beautiful villages to explore. You’re just a stone’s throw away from Albania too.

5. Explore the Delphi Ruins

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo).

6. Explore Melissani Cave

This otherworldly cave grotto can be accessed by a short yet postcard-worthy boat tour. Located on the island of Kefalonia on the western side of Greece, here you can admire the seemingly magical ultramarine waters and the monumental walls that envelope you as you make your way through this hidden underground landscape. Admission is 8 EUR and includes the boat ride.

7. Hike the Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge in beautiful Crete is one of Greece’s National Parks and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is considered one of the best hikes in Greece. While it isn’t the shortest or easiest trek (it’s 16 kilometers/10 miles), the gorge does promise beautiful landscapes, fantastic photo opportunities, and a great workout. Make sure you bring water, sunscreen, and a hat as the heat can be overwhelming. The views are worth it though!

8. Experience the Patras Carnival

Every year in mid-January, the city of Patras (located 2.5 hours west of Athens) hosts what is basically a month-and-a-half-long party that starts on January 17th and runs to the beginning of Lent. There’s a slew of events both major and minor, increasingly crazy weekends, treasure hunts, and various costume parades (which even feature floats). It’s a lively time and as the largest such festival in Greece, attracting tons of revelers. If you want to attend, it’s a good idea to make hotel reservations well in advance as things fill up.

9. Tour the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

The number one attraction in Crete , this museum also happens to be Greece’s second-largest archaeological museum (the museum in Athens is the largest). There is a stunning collection here that highlights the Cretan civilization (dating back from Neolithic times through to the Roman empire), with ancient pottery, jewelry, sarcophagi, colorful frescoes from Knossos, and more. Its Minoan collection is the most extensive in the world. You could easily spend hours here — especially if you love history like me. Admission is 12 EUR in the summer and 6 EUR in the winter.

10. Party on Ios

Ios has the wildest nightlife out of all the Greek islands. It is the summer party island where days are spent hungover on the beach and the nights are spent eating cheap food and drinking. If you don’t want to do that but still want to see Ios, it’s best to go to the eastern part of the island where it’s quieter. Don’t let Ios’ party reputation deter you from visiting though, it’s a beautiful, rugged island (and home to the grave of Homer, who wrote The Iliad and The Odyssey). It’s only busy from June-August so you can visit in the shoulder season to escape the party crowd.

11. Visit Thessaloniki

With more than 1 million inhabitants, Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city after Athens. Although it dates back to 315 BCE, a lot of the city was destroyed by fire in 1917 and then by bombing during World War II. The result is a combination of more modern European city urban planning alongside Early Christian, Roman, and Byzantine monuments. In fact, Thessaloniki has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites (15!) than any other city in Europe. Be sure to visit the White Tower, the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and Galerius Palace as well as the many churches (such as the Hagia Sofia and Hagios Demetrios). There are also several great museums here, including the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Jewish Museum, and the Olympic Museum.

12. Go to Zakynthos

Just south of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea is Zakynthos , one of Greece’s most popular islands. With its soft, sandy beaches and charming villages, it’s easy to see why this island is a fan favorite. It can be busy, particularly in the summer, so head away from the main tourist area (go north, west or inland) or visit in the off-season to escape the crowds. Zakynthos is also a breeding area for loggerhead turtles and you can see them on Lagana Beach or on Turtle Island but take care to do so responsibly. Other activities include seeing the Blue Caves, Marathonisi Islet, and Shipwreck Beach (you’ll need to take a boat tour to get there). There are also tons of churches, monasteries, and ruins to check out too.

13. Visit Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a medieval castle town in Laconia, around 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Sparta . It’s a spectacular island to visit as it is built into the side of a huge rock! Monemvasia’s a quiet town perfect for relaxing on the beach before dining under the stars at seaside taverns or on cobbled streets in the town. If you’re into hiking, there are some trails that will take you past chapels and settlements up to hilltops to admire the view or down to secluded beaches.

14. Explore Ioannina

Next to Lake Pamvotida in northwestern Greece, Ioannina is a castle town that is bursting with museums. Don’t miss the Byzantine Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Silversmithing Museum (the area is well-known for its beautiful jewelry). Head to the castle at sunset for a peaceful end to your day. You can use the town as a base for exploring the nearby Pindus National Park, the Tzoumerka mountain chain, the Cave of Perama, and the Byzantine town of Arta as well. You won’t need more than a couple of days here but it is well worth stopping if you are passing through.

15. Go wine tasting

While Greece isn’t as internationally renowned for wine as other European countries such as France or Spain, it should be. The Greek wine-making tradition goes back at least 6,500 years and is still going strong. Wine regions are spread across the country, but Crete has one of the oldest wine-making traditions (and over 30 wineries to visit around the island), while the wineries of Santorini make for an interesting tour due to the way that grape vines must be grown here (to protect against harsh winds). Wine tours generally are around 85-125 EUR for a full-day tour.

16. Take a cooking class

Greek food is legendary. If you’re a foodie like me and want to learn more about the cuisine and culture behind it, try a cooking class . Bring a taste of your trip home by learning how to make some traditional recipes (including favorites like tzatziki and moussaka) while learning about the importance of each dish directly from a local chef. Cooking classes generally last 3-4 hours and cost 90-120 EUR.

17. Take a boat tour

A boat tour is one of the best ways to see the islands, especially as some beaches are only accessible by water. Most tours also have stops for snorkeling and lounging on the beach, and many include drinks and lunch. Half-day tours start at 50 EUR, while full-day tours are around 100 EUR.

18. Go diving

Diving has become increasingly popular in the Greek Islands. On Mykonos , Paradise Reef has a large variety of marine life, including sponges, barracuda, octopus, and starfish. Ios is popular with beginners due to its crystal-clear waters and relatively calm waves. On the other hand, Santorini has less marine life but tons of shipwrecks. Shore dives are generally 40-50 EUR, while a two-tank dive on a boat is 90-120 EUR. You can also take a beginner discovery course for 55 EUR or a variety of PADI courses starting at 280 EUR.

19. Tour an olive oil farm

  For more information on specific destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Greece Travel Costs

A room in a budget hotel that sleeps two can be found for 40-60 EUR (expect much higher prices — up to 50% higher — during the summer). Amenities at these hotels typically include free Wi-Fi, TV, a private bathroom, AC, and sometimes breakfast as well.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms for 25-45 EUR in many cities and entire homes (including studio apartments) start at around 70 EUR per night.

Food – Greece is known for its food. Think seasonal vegetables (like olives), seafood, grilled meats, bread, feta cheese, and yogurt — all the staples of a fresh Mediterranean diet. To eat cheap, stick with eating gyros, souvlaki, and kebabs. These cost 2-5 EUR and easily fill you up. If you’re on a budget, you can live off these for as little as 10 EUR per day.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 8-12 EUR for a main dish like moussaka and about 2-4 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 6-8 EUR. Fish is more expensive, costing around 17-22 EUR for the catch-of-the-day.

Most restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water is about 2 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 8-10 EUR while Indian/Middle Eastern/Chinese food can be found for around 6 EUR for a main dish.

If you’re going out for dinner at a traditional taverna, expect to spend between 12-20 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that, the prices go up depending on how fancy the restaurant is!

Beer is 2-4 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3-4 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 30-50 EUR per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. It’s easy to eat on the cheap in Greece.

Backpacking Greece Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Greece, my suggested budget is 40-60 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating cheap food, cooking some of your meals, doing only free activities like hiking and relaxing on the beach, limiting your drinking, and using local transportation to get around. If you’re visiting the Greek islands or traveling during peak season, expect to spend on the higher amount of that. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 100-130 EUR per day, you can visit some museums and ruins, stay at a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi, and rent a bike or scooter to get around.

If you keep your drinking and costly activities down, you can easily do this closer to 100 EUR per day. On the other hand, if you’re staying on one of the more expensive islands like Mykonos or Santorini and drinking a lot, expect to spend closer to 150-180 EUR.

On a “luxury” budget of 235 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, do paid tours and more expensive activities (like diving), rent a car to get around, and generally enjoy the finer things in life! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. Expect to pay upwards of 50 EUR more per day on the islands.

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Greece Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece is affordable. Sure, islands like Santorini and Mykonos are expensive but, for the most part, if you are “keeping it local” you aren’t going to spend a lot of money here. Here are my favorite ways to save money when you travel to Greece:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. use this rule to figure out how to eat at cheap restaurants.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros and other street snacks only cost a few euros and can keep you full for 10 EUR per day if you’re on a tight budget.
• Rent a moped – It’s cheaper than a car and a fun way to see the various towns and cities — especially on the islands. You can usually rent a moped for around 15 EUR per day. Just drive carefully as Greek drivers tend to be aggressive.
• Get off the beaten path – Greece is a cheap country and even cheaper when you get away from the touristy islands or popular destinations. Head off the beaten path and you usually see prices drop by 30% or more.
• Book overnight ferries – Greece’s inter-island ferries can get expensive if you are visiting a lot of islands. Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price. Plus, it saves you a night of accommodation. Moreover, if you book the ferries around two months in advance, you can save up to 25% off the cost of your ticket.
• Get a ferry pass – Eurail has a ferry pass that has 4- and 6-trip options. The only caveat is that you can only take Blue Star and Hellenic Seaways ferries. Those tend to be the larger, slower ferries and, depending on the islands, might require you to connect somewhere. You’ll need to research routes in advance to see if the pass is worth it. I would search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you. You can purchase your pass on Eurail (non-EU residents) or Interrail (EU residents).
• Take public transportation – Buses, while sometimes running on inconvenient schedules, are the best way to get around Greece. Taxis are very expensive so minimize their use whenever you can and stick with the buses.
• Visit in the off-season – July and August are the most expensive months, so skip the middle of summer if you’re on a budget. Prices will be significantly cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to get a free place to stay and meet locals. There are a ton of hosts throughout the country (I stayed with one in Athens) and it’s my favorite way to get to know the “real” Greece.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine for around 4 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar.
• Have an ISIC Card – To save on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Get combined tickets – Historical attractions in Greece are often priced so that it’s always a better deal to buy a combined ticket. If the sites you are going to offer one, buy it. It will save you money.
• Use points if you can – If you have points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation can save you a ton of money. This post has more information on how to start collecting and using points and miles
• Rent a car – Car rentals can be incredibly cheap in Greece. Prices start at just 20 EUR per day when booked in advance. Drivers need to be at least 21 and have had their license for one year. An International Driving Permit is also required.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Greece

Greece has something for everything and you can often find small family-run operations on the islands. It’s not hard to even find budget accommodations with nice extra like pools either! Here are my suggested places to stay in Greece:

• Selina (Athens)
• Athens Hawks Hostel (Athens)
• BedBox (Athens)
• Athens Hub (Athens)
• Studio Eleni (Mykonos)
• Caveland (Santorini)
• Fira’s Backpacker Place (Santorini)
• Bedspot Hostel (Santorini)
• Asterolithos Hotel (Santorini)
• Youth Hostel Plakias (Crete)
• Rethymno Youth Hostel (Crete)
• Cocoon City (Crete)
• Intra Muros (Crete)
• The Pink Palace (Corfu)
• Angelica’s Backpacker’s Hostel (Corfu)
• Francesco’s (Ios)
• FarOut Beach Club (Ios)
• FarOut Camping (Ios)
• Castle View Camping and Bungalows (Sparta)
• Lakonia Hotel (Sparta)

How to Get Around Greece

Buses – KTEL is the main bus operator in Greece. You can look up schedules and prices online, but their website is pretty outdated and you’re better off booking tickets at the actual bus station. Getting from Athens to Sparta takes around 3.5 hours and costs around 20 EUR, while Athens to Thessaloniki takes around 5.5 hours and costs around 35 EUR. Thessaloniki to Ioannina takes 3.5 hours and is just 13 EUR.

Trains – Train travel in Greece isn’t great. Trains are unreliable and slow and there are only a few routes in the country between Athens and other major cities, like Thessaloniki and Patras. You’re better off driving or taking the bus. However, if you do get the train, a trip from Athens to Thessaloniki takes about 4.5 hours and costs at least 20 EUR.

Ferries – Because Greece has a lot of islands, you have to deal with taking ferries to get around. Expect to spend an average of 35 EUR per trip, though you could spend as little as 12 EUR if the islands are really close together. From Athens, most ferries to the Cyclades cost around 70 EUR.

Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price plus save you a night of accommodation so if you’re not in a rush, book those!

There are many different ferry companies, and most are created equal. High speed ferries or catamarans cost a lot more (book in advance). You can research routes and ticket prices using FerryHopper and gtp.gr .

If you’re ok traveling on the slower ferries and your routes match the available routes, the Eurail/Interrail ferry pass is worth considering as you’ll get discounts with this pass. Search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.

Flying – Flying is a quick and affordable way to get around Greece and between islands (though not all islands have airports). A one-way flight from Athens to Santorini or Mykonos takes less than one hour and costs around 25-35 EUR. Flights can dip to as little as 10 EUR when booked in advance.

Scooter/Quad rentals – Renting a scooter or ATV is a really popular way to discover many parts of Greece, particularly the islands. It lets you explore at your own pace and is quite affordable. Scooter rentals cost between 15-25 EUR per day depending on the location and if it is peak season or off-season. ATVs cost around 30-45 EUR per day.

Car rental – Car rentals here are super affordable, starting at just 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Expect manual transmissions. Drivers need an International Driving Permit before renting as well and need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars

When to Go to Greece

Peak season in Greece is from June-August. Temperatures hover around 33°C (92°F) and popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos experience a huge influx of visitors. Prices increase during this time as well. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Greece is shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm during these times but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. It’s also easier to meet locals during this time. Overall, it’s a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold and tourist crowds thin out considerably. Temperatures vary quite a bit from north to south, with it sometimes dropping to 11°C (52°F) in some places (Athens sometimes gets snow). Many of the islands — particularly Santorini and Mykonos — almost shut down entirely during the off-season. In short, I’d skip a winter visit unless you’re only planning to visit museums.

How to Stay Safe in Greece

Greece is very safe for backpacking and solo travel. Violent attacks are uncommon. Petty crime is about the worst that could happen to you, specifically pickpocketing in Athens, where it is prevalent. Fortunately, Greek police have really cracked down on perpetrators. Nevertheless, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight when you’re in markets, on busy streets, or when using public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the country but read this article on common travel scams to avoid if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you go out hiking, always check the weather first. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. It can get incredibly hot here!

Be careful when driving as Greek drivers tend to be on the aggressive side and some of the roads aren’t very well maintained.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Greece Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Greece Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

• Travel Planning Guide

How much does a trip to Greece Cost?

How much money should you budget for your trip to Greece?

• How much does a one-week trip to Greece cost?
• How much does a two-week trip to Greece cost?
• How much does a one-month trip to Greece cost?
• Hostel Prices
• Hotel Prices

The Cost of a Trip to Greece

Visitors to Greece usually spend between $67 and $433 per day on average for one person and $133 to $865 for two people. While this is a wide range, the average daily cost averages $170 (€157) per person. This average includes sightseeing, hotel, food, and local transportation expenses from other travelers. Your individual travel expenses may vary based on travel style and the locations visited, but if you plan wisely while visiting the most popular destinations, such as Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos, then you'll likely spend somewhere in this price range while on your trip. Further down we have a breakdown of expenses by category, as well as a comparison of independent travel versus guided tour prices.

If you're considering an independent trip to Greece, it's helpful to have an idea of the amount of money you'll need. For budget travelers, planning to spend around $67 (€62) per day should cover your essential expenses, including affordable accommodations like hostels and budget hotels, cost-effective meal options, local transportation, and affordable activities. For those with a mid-range budget, allocating around $170 (€157) per day would allow for more comfortable hotels, dining at typical restaurants, and exploring a range of popular attractions. Luxury travelers, on the other hand, should anticipate a daily budget of $433 (€399), which would encompass higher-end accommodations, dining at nicer restaurants, and indulging in private tour options. It's worth noting that these price ranges are based on extensive travel cost data for Greece from fellow travelers, as well as insights from travel companies regarding hotel and tour prices. For further details on travel costs, you can refer to our comprehensive travel cost data for Greece .

How much does a one week trip to Greece cost?

Most visitors spend between $467 and $3,029 for a one week trip to Greece, with the average being $1,187. This includes sightseeing, local transportation, food, and hotels. One week is enough time to visit one, two, or maybe three locations in Greece, depending on how in-depth you want to make your visit. Some of the most popular places to visit are Athens , Santorini , and Mykonos .

How much does a two week trip to Greece cost?

With two weeks, you should budget between $934 and $6,058 for your trip to Greece. The average price for a two week trip is $2,374. Two weeks will allow you enough time to visit between three and five places. If you're on a budget, you might want to consider some of the more affordable places such as Ios, Aegina, and Chania.

How much does a one month trip to Greece cost?

With a month-long trip to Greece, expenses can be anywhere from $2,001 to $12,982 with the average being $5,086. The cost of travel is dependent on your overall style of travel. If you have a full month, you'll likely want to stay at a vacation rental with a kitchen during at least part of your trip so that you can prepare your own meals. Backpackers often prefer hostels for the same reason. Hostels also offer a more social atmosphere at a very affordable price range.

Hostel Prices in Greece

With more than 80 hostels in Greece, the average price is $20 per night for a dorm bed. Hostels are a terrific option for younger independent travelers looking to save money while staying social during their trip. With many types of hostels, it can be overwhelming to sort out the best places, though. Our analysis of the hostels in Greece not only found the average price, but also uncovered some surprises about the overall quality, amenities, and atmosphere of hostels in the region. You can see more details from our analysis about typical hostel prices in Greece here .

Here are a few sample prices from popular hostels in Greece.

• $29 for a dorm bed at Athens Backpackers in Athens more details
• $18 for a dorm bed at Cocoon City Hostel in Chania more details
• $17 for a dorm bed at Thessaloniki Studios Arabas in Thessaloniki more details

Hotel Prices in Greece

You'll find a wide range of hotel options across Greece. Below are prices for some of the destinations, and for more details see our analysis of hotel costs in Greece .

The Tsitouras Collection

Pelecas country club.

Should you do an organized tour or travel independently in Greece?

Organized tours are an easy and convenient way to visit Greece. All of the details are handled by travel experts, and during the trip you'll benefit from the knowledge of an expert guide.

Traveling independently offers freedom and flexibility that is hard to find on an organized tour.

Many travelers appreciate the convenience and ease that an organized tour offers. Many tours provide transportation and expert guides that help you enjoy your trip.

Alternatively, you'll enjoy freedom and flexibility with independent travel that is difficult to find with an organized tour.

Comparing Trip Costs in Greece

When we compare the prices of organized tours to the average costs of independent travelers, we can see that sometimes the prices are fairly even.

Tours vs. independent Travel: Pros & Cons

Organized tours.

• An expert guide familiar with the culture
• Convenient transportation
• Fellow travelers to socialize with
• Well researched activities
• Efficient and thought out itinerary
• The security of have a trip leader if something goes wrong
• Limited options
• Usually not customizable
• The fast pace often means you can’t visit one place in depth
• Usually more expensive than independent travel
• There may be limited time to interact with the local culture and community

Independent Travel

• Completely customizable
• Opportunity to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations
• Can fully immerse yourself in the local culture
• Freedom to move at your own pace
• Flexibility to change your itinerary at any time
• More affordable
• Challenging to plan an efficient itinerary
• Transportation may be challenging or inefficient
• Booking and trip planning can be a hassle
• Popular sights may sell out well in advance
• If something goes wrong, you're on your own

Are organized tours more expensive than independent travel in Greece?

Organized tours average $273 per day in Greece, and are generally all-inclusive with one large payment. Independent trips usually average $170 (€157) per day, and include individual payments to hotels, local transportation, food, and sightseeing. When compared, organized tours and independent trips each come with their own set of challenges and benefits. It's important to understand all aspects of both types of trips to make a fair comparison. You can see our thorough analysis of tour prices in Greece here .

Here are a few sample tours in Greece:

• Sailing Greece - Santorini to Athens ($3,279) 15 days, 15 destinations more details
• Grand Classical Tour Of Greece plus Mani and Monemvasia (Small group - In depth culture/Historical/Nature/Culinary… ($2,753) 10 days, 32 destinations more details
• A Circular Tour around the Peloponense 10 days ($2,753) 10 days, 23 destinations more details
• Splendid off-season tour in Greece: UNESCO sites and other beautiful destinations on a 19-days tour… ($16,775) 19 days, 33 destinations more details
• Incredible Crete! ($3,337) 7 days, 15 destinations more details

More for Greece

If you're planning a trip to Greece, check out these other informative travel guides.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Is Greece Expensive? A Greece Trip Cost Guide in 2024

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

One of the key points to planning a trip to Greece is contemplating the question, is Greece expensive? Greece is easily one of the most visited countries in the world and with good reason.

From its rich history and ruins, endless painted sunsets, appealingly blue beaches, and tantalizing cuisine, you’re only fated to want to return in no time.

If you’re wondering about the average cost of a trip to Greece, when to visit to maximize your budget and where to visit depending on your budget, we’ve broken down the prices to help you have the best trip possible.

Table of Contents

Greece Trip Cost Guide

When visiting Greece, your trip can easily go one of two ways depending on your budget and the type of traveler you are. 

If you’re someone keen to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations, the mainland of Greece (including the beautiful Peloponnese region) is going to be your best bet and you’ll save the most money.

On the other hand, if you’re searching for famous getaway destinations with swanky meals by the sea, be prepared to spend a fair amount of money visiting the Greek islands – especially islands like Mykonos or Santorini.

The mainland of Greece and the numerous Greek islands (such as Corfu, Crete, Paros or Naxos ) are destinations that I highly recommend visiting, but the costs will vary quite a bit and this guide reflects this, so keep that in mind when reading and planning a Greece itinerary.

On average, you can expect the Greek islands to be more expensive to visit with an average cost of €80 to € 420 per day compared to €55 to € 210 per day on the Greek mainland.

With that being said, if you’re determined to visit the Greek islands, but are also on a budget, don’t let it steer you away from visiting. You can visit one or two islands that are nearby, eat street food, and plan in advance to secure the most affordable accommodation without finding your wallet in ruins.

Accommodation Prices

Accommodation is easily the most important part of planning a trip and the costs will undoubtedly be in the front of your mind when you begin planning a trip. In Greece, prices can vary immensely for accommodation, depending on where you’re visiting and what type of accommodation you’re looking for.

On the islands, you can expect to pay a lot more than what you’ll pay on the mainland for pretty much every category of a trip budget, but accommodation more than anything.

With that being said, a hostel dorm bed a night will average around €20 in Athens and the mainland and around €40 on the majority of the islands such as Mykonos and Santorini .

If you’re looking to stay in an average mid-range hotel, expect to pay €55 a night on average in Athens and the mainland and around €90 on the islands.

For those looking for a nicer, more upscale hotel stay, you can find a nice hotel in Athens and the mainland for around €100-200 per night depending on the location, type of hotel and time of year. As for the islands, anything between €200 and upwards of €3,000 can be expected.

If you’re looking for the biggest bang for your buck, I recommend booking accommodation as far in advance as possible here , as prices in the summer can increase quite a bit as summer draws near.

Transportation Prices

Overall, transportation prices in Greece are quite affordable and won’t make a big dent in your Greece vacation cost. Bus and metro transport are about €2 on average for just about anywhere in the country and are usually the main mode of transport once you’re at your destination.

If you’re traveling throughout mainland Greece, tickets on the national bus system, KTEL, are usually about €20 per ride for longer destinations and €5 for shorter and more local destinations.

While train transport isn’t widely available, you can find train transport for certain routes and they’re not too expensive. Expect to pay around €35 from Athens in the southern side of the country, to Thessaloniki , the most northern major city in Greece.

If you’re someone who prefers the flexibility of having your own car, renting a car is an extremely common way to get around Greece (especially in the islands) and is a great way to get around.

Costs will vary depending on when you book your car but on average you can expect to pay around €15-35 per day for a car rental depending on where you’re renting from, how far in advance, and which season. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices across several different companies.

Many spots in Greece are also quite easy to get around by foot, making it a cost-efficient way to also see the city from a first-hand point of view rather than underground or on a busy bus. 

If you’re hoping to visit an island or do some island hopping during your Greece itinerary, the main mode of transport is typically by ferry. Unfortunately, ferry costs have gone quite high in the past few years making it more expensive to visit the islands (depending on the ferry and distance). You can check schedules and prices here.

Although fortunately, some island routes within Greece have more affordable flight options in the summer months. For example, a one-way ticket to Milos from Athens on a 3 ½ hour ferry will set you back €70, and you can find a 40-minute flight for around €60.

Food Prices

Now we have made it to one of the main reasons why many people choose to travel in Greece rather than elsewhere, the food.

Besides accommodation, food is undeniably the most important cost to factor in when planning and budgeting your overall trip to Greece cost. You’ll probably be wondering, is Greece expensive for food and drink? 

The amount that you’ll spend on food during your Greece itinerary can vary quite widely for a few different reasons. First off, costs will vary depending on where you’re visiting.

For example; a nicer sit-down restaurant in Athens will typically cost around €20 for a meal including a main, appetizer, and glass of wine. Whereas you can expect to pay around €35 for a similar meal on the islands in places like Santorini where prices are higher.

Another variable to factor in when it comes to the costs of Greek food is the type of food that you’ll be eating and how much you’re looking to spend. If you’re hoping to spend the minimum amount on food during your trip, you’re in luck.

Greece has some of the most delicious street food, you can buy a souvlaki (meat skewer) or falafel for usually around €2, and these typically come with bread as well.

For more of a full meal, try a gyro or souvlaki pita, which are pita wraps stuffed with either shaved meat or pieces cooked on a skewer for around €3.50. For breakfast, grab a freshly baked spinach or meat pie and a coffee for just €5. 

If you like to try to find restaurants with set lunch menus on your travels, unfortunately, they’re not too common in Greece, and usually, the only set menus you’ll find are at high-end gastronomic restaurants.

Activities Prices

One of the most exciting things about visiting Greece is exploring its thriving world of culture and abundant history.

Whether you’re hoping to just visit the Acropolis and skip most of the other historical sites or you’re someone keen on exploring all of the activities that Greece has to offer; activity prices are important when exploring a travel budget for Greece.

For most museum tickets, expect to pay on average €10 per entry, but keep in mind that this can vary where you are in the country and the museum that you’re visiting.

Walking tours are also a great option to see an extended area of where you’re visiting with a local guide and are typically around €50 but you can also join a free walking tour (with the expectation of at least a small tip.)

Greece is one of the richest countries in the world in historic sites, so I highly suggest visiting at least one of the many historic sites that the country has to offer. 

Costs of historic site visits can vary but are typically around €15 throughout the majority of the country. The main exception is likely the most visited one of all, the Acropolis.

Tickets for the Acropolis during the summer season (April-October) are €20 per person, making it a hefty cost for a site visit. However, if you’re visiting Athens in winter rather than in the high season, you will pay less for entry here. You can  buy skip-the-line tickets here  or get a combined ticket here  for the Acropolis and many other sites in Athens.

With that being said, historic site visits vary depending on the time of year and national sites have two seasons for costs; summer and winter. The summer season is easily the busiest time of year in Greece (April-October), and tickets are at their highest.

When the winter season comes around (November-March), ticket costs are pretty much sliced in half, making it a much more affordable time of year to visit. There are also free days throughout the year coinciding with national holidays, so make a point to check to see if you’ll be visiting Greece on one of these days for free historic site and museum entry. 

If visiting the islands, keep in mind that activities will likely be more expensive as well. Day excursions to neighboring islands or boat trips such as a sailing cruise from Santorini tend to be quite pricey so expect to pay on average of €100 per excursion when planning day activities in the Greek islands.

Beach visits are easily one of the most popular things to do when visiting the Greek islands and although the cost of chairs and umbrellas can be quite steep ( €25 average for 2 chairs and 1 umbrella), the beaches are free to visit and you can just bring your own towel and find a spot that suits you.

Fortunately, Greece is a country where there’s always something going on, no matter the time of year. Because of this, you’ll also manage to find free activities throughout the country; whether you’re spending a weekend in Athens or a week in the Greek islands.

From trails in nature, and beach visits, to art galleries, you’re bound to have a great time in Greece even if you’re traveling on a budget. 

Entertainment Prices

Going out in Greece, whether for a coffee or cocktail, is one of the most infallible ways of immersing yourself in Greek culture and experiencing how the Greeks spend their past time and connect with family and friends.

Luckily, going out is one of the most affordable things to do in Greece, along with eating succulent street food.

Greeks love their coffee, and you can find coffee shops or cafes on just about every corner no matter where you are in the country. For those who enjoy exploring in the later hours, nightlife and entertainment in Greece are a huge part of the culture and the bar scene is fantastic.

Whether you’re looking for a swanky jazz bar, a brewery to taste local beer or a cocktail bar with exciting local flavors, there’s something for everyone.

A cappuccino will set you back just €2 and the average cost of a cocktail is typically around €9. If you’re looking for a draught beer or a glass of local wine, expect to pay around €4-6 depending on where you are.

Keep in mind that costs will likely be more on the islands or anywhere you’re in more of a “scenic” spot; in that case you’re paying for the view. 

One of my favorite forms of entertainment in Greece is to go to a concert at one of the ancient amphitheaters throughout the country. These concerts typically take place in summer and it’s truly magical sitting within history while being taken away by astounding acoustics and live music.

Prices can vary depending on where you go and the popularity of the performance, but you can easily get a ticket for €20 at the Athens Epidaurus Festival under the summer sunset and twilight sky. 

Is Greece Expensive? Average Prices in Greece

With all that being said, how expensive is Greece? I suppose it all comes down to where in the country you’re visiting, and how you wish to spend your time.

If you’re visiting the mainland and visiting a few places, hoping to see a few sites, it won’t be an expensive trip and you won’t be having to scale down your trip to minimize costs. On the other hand, if your main time in Greece is visiting the islands, a Greece trip can become quite costly. 

Here, I’ve broken down the average cost of a trip to Greece from the low to high end and have broken it into two sections, mainland Greece and the Greek Islands. This solely includes the costs within the country itself and doesn’t include pre-trip expenses such as the cost of flights to Greece.

Keep in mind that these costs assume that a trip is split between 2 people and thus the average accommodation costs reflect that. It also doesn’t include any pre-trip expenses such as airfares or travel insurance.

Athens & Mainland Greece Costs

Accommodation: €20-100 / night                    

Transportation: €5-35 / day                   

Food: €10-35 / day

Activities:  €10-20 / day

Entertainment: €10-20 / day

Total: €55-210 per day

Greek Islands Costs

Accommodation: €40-200 / night                    

Transportation: €10-50 / day

Food: €10-50 / day

Activities: €10-100 / day

Total: €80-420 per day

A trip to the mainland per day can set you back between €55-210 and the daily costs to the Greek Islands will cost on average between €80-420 per day.

Greece is nothing short of a dream destination for many travelers throughout the world and can also be a great place for budget travelers to head to.

The mainland is an immense natural beauty with classic hospitality and the islands are everything summer vacation is made of; good food, sun, blue water, and cocktails.

Whether you want to visit the mainland or the islands, it’s possible on most budgets if you plan and budget well for your trip.

Are you curious about the prices in Greece? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Is Mykonos Expensive? A Mykonos Trip Cost Guide

Rhodes or Crete: Which Greek Island to Visit?

The Perfect 5 to 7 Day Peloponnese Road Trip Itinerary

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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Your Trip to the Greece: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Greece: The Complete Guide

A visit to Greece can be a dream vacation as long as you know what your dream really is and plan for it. The country's beautiful beaches and world-famous archaeological sites are just two (of many!) reasons to visit Greece . But whatever your reason, use this guide to learn more about the various regions of Greece, how to travel around the country and what to expect of Greece's food, culture, and sights.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : Spring and early fall are the best times to visit when there are fewer tourists but the sea is still warm and the weather fine for outdoor activities.

Language: Greek  . English is spoken in the cities and areas popular with visitors.

Currency: Euro (€)  .

Getting Around: Train service in Greece is limited. An exception is the InterCity Network run by TrainOSE that connects Athens to Thessaloniki and several other cities. Buses, including both local and intercity services, are run by regional cooperatives known as KTEL. The services are not nationally coordinated, so you need to look up KTEL for the region you plan to visit. This KTEL Macedonia website (covering the area around Thessaloniki) is typical. Athens and Thessaloniki have local and suburban public transportation systems. Athen's Metro (expanded for the Olympics) is particularly good, cheap, and clean. Hundreds of ferries connect the mainland to the islands and mainland coastal ports to each other. Private companies run the ferries, and there is no nationwide timetable. Save time and money by using the services of a Greek travel agent to book ferries and for information about buses and trains. Greek websites on these subjects are not well developed for international travelers, but agents are common in ports and city centers.

Travel Tip: Driving in Greece is not for the faint-hearted. Even though many of the highways have been improved in recent years, mountain roads can be hair raising. That, coupled with Greek driving habits, means that the country has a much higher accident rate than elsewhere in Europe.

Things to Do

Eighty percent of Greece is covered in mountains, divided into many peninsulas, and separated by canals  . There are also about 6,000 islands, 227 of them inhabited, and thousands of miles of coast. Getting from one part of the country to another can be complicated so it's important to know, in advance, what you want to do and where to find it:

• Two major cities, Athens , the center of Classical Greece, and Thessaloniki , the heart of Byzantine Greece, are hubs of culture, museums, fashion, nightlife, shopping, dining, and festivals. Both are good bases for touring.
• Fragrant woodlands, dramatic mountains, olive groves and sacred sites dedicated ancient oracles and gods cover mainland Greece. Byzantine fortresses and remote monasteries perch between deep, folded mountain valleys.
• Wherever you go in Greece you'll find thousands of years of history, from the earliest signs of democracy to the temples and theaters of the ancient world as well as the remnants of the Romans and the Byzantines. The Parthenon, the Acropolis , and the Temple of Apollo at Delphi are among the most popular sites.
• The thousands of Greek islands and beaches are an essential part of Greece and Greek culture and are surprisingly easy to reach by plane or ferry. Islands like Crete , Santorini , and Kefalonia are worth a trip on their own.

What to Eat and Drink

Though the foodie scene in the cities is becoming pan-European and international, the best things to eat in Greece are still fresh and local. Octopus and kalamari (fried rings of squid) are popular taverna fare. Fresh Greek salads with feta or local cheeses, a squeeze of lemon and tangy olive oil, are part of every meal. Look for sweets flavored with mastic, a gum from evergreen trees. You may be welcomed to your hotel with a spoonful of cherry or apricot jam and a glass of water.

Take some time to stop at a kafenio (cafe) for coffee and honey-soaked Greek pastries, like baklava and kataifi , or the custard pie known as galaktoboureko . A popular outdoor coffee drink, apparently invented accidentally in Thessaloniki, is frappé. It's made of instant coffee, ice water, and sugar beaten with an electric whisk to form a foam.

The Greeks these days are producing outstanding red and white wines from vineyards in Crete and Santorini. Ouzo, flavored with aniseed, is similar to French pastis drinks. It is sweet and robust and, when added to water, turns white. It packs a lethal punch. If you have a taste for firewater, try the raw spirit made from the byproducts of winemaking. It's called raki in Crete and Tsipouro or Tsikoudia everywhere else. As far as local beers are concerned, microbreweries have caught on, and there are excellent craft beer makers. Look for Red Donkey, a fruity amber ale from Santorini.

Learn more about what to eat and drink in Greece, including the top 10 dishes to try in Greece and the best restaurants in Athens .

Where to Stay

Accommodations in Greece range from quirky Athens boutiques in bohemian neighborhoods like Psirri to corporate giants, like the Athens Hilton in the city center or the luxury Hotel Grande Bretagne in Syntagma Square. The area immediately west of Syntagma Square and into Monastiraki has a concentration of moderately priced three and four-star hotels.

Learn more about the best hotels in Athens, as well as top neighborhoods to visit in Athens .

Getting There

The main international airport for Greece is Athens International Airport , with connecting flights to Thessaloniki, Kalamata , and several of the islands, including Crete and Santorini. Athens Airport is on a main highway and is about 20 minutes from the city center by car or taxi (taxi fares are set by law). Car rental, pick up and drop off, is easiest to arrange at the airport. The cheapest and fastest way to get to the airport from Athens is by Metro Line 3. The airport Metro station is well marked. There are also bus services from the airport to the ports of Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio.

To find out more about getting to Greece, explore the best ways to get to Athens Airport , how to take the ferry from Athens to Santorini and how to avoid taxi scams in Greece .

Culture and Customs

Outside of the big cities and major tourist resorts, Greece is a relatively conservative country. In small towns and rural areas, women should dress modestly, avoiding bare shoulders, exposed bosoms, tight or very short skirts or shorts. Even in the cities, cover up before entering Greek Orthodox churches. And, if you are visiting monasteries like the ones at Meteora, don't wear trousers. If you do, the monks will give you wrap around skirts to put on over pants.

Nude and topless bathing is tolerated in many parts of Greece, and on some of the islands, like Crete and Spetses, a short walk beyond the end of a popular beach will take you to a nude beach area. But check with your hotel or a local taverna first. Nude bathing is still technically illegal. On the small islands and in more rural places, Greek families from the small mountain villages visit the beach on weekends with their families. Nude bathing that may be tolerated during the week is not allowed on weekends and school holidays.

Check out everything you need to know about nude bathing in Greece and discover Crete's best nude beach.

Money-Saving Tips

• Travel in the off-season: The most popular time to visit, with the highest prices from June to September. Visit in May or October, and the weather is reliably warm, but prices are much lower.
• Consider self-catering: That's what Europeans call vacation rentals. Efficiency apartments and small villas are usually cheaper than hotel accommodation, and you can save quite a bit by cooking some of your meals yourself.
• Rent an electric bicycle or moped: They're cheaper than rental cars and popular for getting around on islands and in coastal resorts. Just be careful. They are very noisy, and you may not be aware of traffic coming up behind you.
• Take advantage of what's free: Most museums and historical attractions have free admission on certain days or for certain groups of travelers. Look up the site you're interested in on the Greek Ministry of Culture & Sports website . In the left column of your attraction's listing, click on "Information," and you'll find all the free days.

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "General Info."

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "Geography."

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Greece Trip Cost: Pricing for Flights, Food & Accommodation

Plan your dream Greece trip without breaking the bank! Get vital tips on flights, food, & accommodation costs plus budget-saving tricks for savvy travelers.

Often considered a cradle of western civilization, Greece is one of the top destinations for sunseekers. History lovers cherish this old city because it brings them close to the stories of mythmakers and deep thinkers from history books. But before you pack your bags for the city of idyllic islands and iconic architecture, you will want to know how much a Greece trip costs.

The average cost of a 7-days Greece vacation is $864 per person. Couples can expect to pay around $1,740 for a 7-day vacation in Greece. These costs cover your daily expenses while in Greece and do not include flight costs and other significant expenses. The costs can go slightly higher or lower depending on your lifestyle choices.

Greece is an enchanting city with many beautiful things to see and do. Therefore, it's not surprising that it costs quite a lot to keep up with an average lifestyle in the city. The rest of this article will cover detailed reviews of the costs of visiting Greece.

Average Cost Of A Greece Vacation

Credit:  Ben Ramirez / Flickr

Let's be honest; there are thousands of reasons to make Greece your next vacation location. Everything invites you to a great time, from the many great beaches to the historical sites and wonderful food. But all these come with a cost. Greece is a relatively expensive location to visit; hence the need to plan a detailed budget before your trip.

One of the first pieces of information that should go into your budget is the expected cost of travel. Another thing is how to bring the prices down. A budget can help you plan your spending throughout your vacation.

That said, a 7-day trip to Greece should cost around $864 for a single individual. If you add flight costs and accommodation, this figure can quickly go up to between $2,350 - $2,999, depending on where you're flying from. You can also expect to pay more if you want to enjoy added experiences like food tours, day trips, and visits to expensive sites.

Is Greece An Expensive Place To Visit?

Credit:  Community College of Vermont / Flickr

It's normal to assume that a trip to Greece will cost a fortune. After all, most cities in its class, with an abundance of top-level tourist sites, are expensive to visit and stay in. However, while a few high-end parts of Greece are quite costly to live in, most other parts are relatively affordable to visit.

Some of the relatively expensive islands in Greece include Santorini, Zykenthos, and Mykonos. Famous cities like Athens can also fall into this classification, especially for travelers on a budget. While these islands offer a lot of things to do, visiting costs can be a turnoff. If you're concerned about costs, don't worry; there are many ways to save money and travel to Greece on a budget.

One way to travel on a budget is to visit cheaper islands like Crete, Kythnos, Rhodes, Kos, and several others. These islands are generally cheaper because of their more affordable accommodations and easier lifestyle.

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Factors That Sum Up The Total Cost Of A Greece Trip

Now that you're planning a budget for your Greece trip, you might wonder how much each item costs. Yes, we already have an estimate of the total cost, but you deserve also to know what's included in the cost. So, let's quit the generalization and start breaking down the different prices, so you can know what's included.

1. Flight Tickets

Credit:  Iconick / Flickr

Unfortunately, Greece is one of the most expensive European destinations to fly to from North America, and there's a good reason for this. Most North American airlines do not connect directly to Greece, so you may have a stopover in another European country before moving to Athens. These stopovers can easily skyrocket the cost of airfares anywhere.

You can expect to pay around $800-$900 for a roundtrip flight. Let's also mention that prices can fluctuate depending on when you choose to travel.  Greece is a seasonal destination, with the high season starting around mid-June and ending in September. Airfares can quickly increase during this time.

Tourists traveling on a budget can consider flying to another destination in Europe and moving from there to Greece in a budget airline flight like Easyjet. However, that'll mean more travel time and stress to you.

2. Accommodation

Credit:  Terrazzo / Flickr

After flight tickets, the next most significant expense in your budget will be accommodation. Unfortunately, accommodations are tricky to estimate in Greece because prices depend on location.

For example, a hotel in Santorini will cost significantly more than a hotel of the same standard in Naxos. Another factor to consider when calculating accommodation costs is the type of accommodation you want.

Greece is a big city with many beautiful luxury properties spread around. But if you take the time to search, you'll also find some excellent mid-range accommodation options.

For this article, we've researched several mid-range hotels in some very popular parts of Greece. You can get a decent room in such hotels for approximately $200 per night. Let's also point out that you can get cheaper alternatives in the less popular islands.

Also, like everything else, accommodation prices typically fluctuate in Greece. This means you may pay higher for the same accommodation in some months and lower in others.

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3. Intra-city Transportation

Credit:  Dunk / Flickr

Another vital part of your vacation budget is intra-city transportation. You don't want to miss out on all the fascinating sights this ancient city offers. Costs of moving around can vary depending on how you choose to move, although transportation costs can generally be seen as affordable in Greece.

Of course, you won't need to pay anything to walk around the city center. But there's only how far you can go on foot. Public transport services are the best option when moving from one city to another. Most of these services are also very affordable. Take a look at some of them and their costs:

• KTEL buses in Greece:  one of the most popular and affordable ways to travel around Greece. Private companies run KTEL buses, and there are many of them around Greece. Generally, KTEL buses are categorized into two: inter-regional buses and local buses. The average price for these buses is $3, although the price generally increases depending on where you're traveling to.
• Ferries:  like KTEL buses, hundreds of ferries are run by private companies. They connect hundreds of Greek islands with specific ports on the mainland. The cost of riding on a Greek island ferry can range between $10 to $100 for a round trip.
• Train rides:  Train rides are very popular in Greece. They're also comfortable and quick. They run every few hours a day and cost an average of $1.40. A 24-hour ticket will cost $4.50.
• Domestic flights:  while this may not be a popular option for tourists, it's still worth looking at. There are dozens of airports around Greece, so when planning to move long distances, it's perfect to choose to fly between cities in Greece.

Credit:  William Helsen / Flickr

No vacation experience is complete without tasting local foods. So, what will your daily meals cost you on the Greek islands? The answer to this question is "it depends."

Meal prices typically vary based on where you eat and the type of food you choose. Of course, food quantity will also directly affect the cost of food.

You can eat for under $10 per meal, especially if you opt for not-so-expensive options like street food /fast food. On the other hand, foods in high-end restaurants cost more.

Similarly, the price of drinks in Greece widely varies. They start at about $3 for a beer bottle and $9 for a cocktail. As expected, drinks are more expensive in nightclubs, so you can expect to pay more if you buy drinks here.

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5. Sightseeing

Credit:  Kevin Bovard / Flickr

We've covered flight tickets, food, transportation, and accommodation, but let's face it: if you're going to enjoy a trip of a lifetime, you better go out for a detailed sightseeing adventure.

Fortunately, many tourist activities in Greece are free, so you can have enough fun without paying a dime. But if you want an unforgettable experience, you better try free and paid attractions.

If you're in Athens, it may make sense to get an Athens sightseeing pass for around $40. The pass gives you unlimited access to attractions like the Acropolis Museum and many other landmark sites listed on it.

Another highlight of a typical visit to Greece is a sunset cruise in Mykonos, Crete, or Santorini. You can expect to pay around $210-400 for your family to enjoy this experience.

There are several other activities you can try, and you can find the price of all of them on their website. We recommend setting aside $1,000 for sightseeing and other activities during your stay in Greece.

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How To Save Costs During Your Greece Trip

We've talked so much about the costs of going to Greece, but the truth is: you don't have to spend all this money if you don't have it. You can travel on a budget and still have the trip of a lifetime. You just have to know what to do and what not to do during your trip.

Fortunately, there are a few hacks that can help. Here, let's review some cost-cutting tips that can help you save costs during your next visit to Greece.

1. Choose The Cheapest Flight

Credit:  Hellas Holiday / Flickr

Flight tickets are among the most significant parts of your travel budget. So, any reduction in flight costs is usually welcome. While planning your Greece vacation, remember to search for inexpensive flight options.

Note that third-party booking sites may be more expensive than booking directly from the airline. Some will even increase airfares just before you submit your payment info. So, while booking online, it's important to double-check all info and be sure that figures correspond before paying.

Also, remember that the costs of flight tickets may vary throughout the day. So, we recommend deleting your browser history and cookies while comparing prices online to get the exact price schedule every time you check.

2. Book Ahead And Book Wisely

Credit:  James Box / Flickr

Another easy hack for cashing in on cheap ticket prices is to book ahead. Flight tickets are usually more affordable when you book weeks before the take-off date. The same applies to hotels and tourist centers.

Booking in advance allows you to take advantage of early discounts. Besides, it also takes the burden off your shoulders when planning your vacation since you settled payments long ago.

When booking a hotel, it's advisable to pick an independently owned small villa over a large chain resort. Most Greek properties in this category provide exquisite discounts for early bookings.

3. Choose When To Go

Credit:  Chase Cheviron / Flickr

You can also save significant money on your trip if you're smart enough to travel during off-seasons or in the shoulder months. The peak season in Greece starts from July until August. The massive influx of tourists during these months causes prices to go extremely higher than normal.

You can easily save costs by scheduling your trip in other months. It's a double win if you're not interested in vacating with too much of a crowd. Besides, Greece's weather is similar to the Mediterranean, so you'll enjoy excellent beach weather even in less traditional months.

Credit:  John Karakatsanis / Flickr

Walking is one of the most underrated means of transportation. However, people enjoy walking in Greece, especially when covering short distances. Apart from helping you save costs, walking brings you closer to most ancient archeological sites.

You'll find people walking to and from your destination regardless of location. If you're sociable, you can form a group of twos and threes as you enjoy the unique views spread around the city.

Even if the distance is too long to be walked, consider walking a few kilometers before joining a public transport service. Transportation services like train rides and KTEL buses are the cheapest means of public transport. Use them whenever possible to save a few bucks for other activities.

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Cost of a Trip to Greece & the Cheapest Time to Visit Greece

The average price of a 7-day trip to Greece is $1,120 for a solo traveler, $1,817 for a couple, and $1,715 for a family of 4 . Greece hotels range from $42 to $178 per night with an average of $71, while most vacation rentals will cost $140 to $460 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Greece (from all airports) are between $823 and $1,510 per person for economy flights and $2,584 to $4,741 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $32 to $67 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Greece

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Greece and stay in a Greece hotel:

• January 1st to March 25th
• September 10th to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Greece is usually mid October .

Average Greece Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Greece for a week is $896-$2,654 ($128-$379 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $32 to $67 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $360 to $1,615 for economy

Lodging : $52 to $69 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $78 to $95 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Greece for a week is $1,487-$4,737 ($212-$677 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $65 to $134 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $720 to $3,229 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Greece for a week is $2,973-$9,193 ($425-$1,313 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $129 to $268 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,440 to $6,459 for economy

Lodging : $105 to $137 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $117 to $143 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Greece

How cheap can you make a vacation to Greece? The cheapest trip to Greece is about $98 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $16 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $36.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Greece for a week is $688-$2,476 ($98-$354 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $16 to $33 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $36 to $42 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $74 to $105 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Greece for a week is $1,167-$4,314 ($167-$616 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $33 to $65 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Greece for a week is $2,327-$8,305 ($332-$1,186 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $65 to $130 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $72 to $84 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $110 to $156 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is easy to travel to Greece cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Greece Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Greece.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Greece for a week is $1,925-$10,491 ($275-$1,499 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $64 to $134 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $907 to $3,997 for first class

Lodging : $95 to $178 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $464 to $926 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Greece for a week is $3,287-$15,434 ($470-$2,205 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $129 to $269 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,814 to $7,995 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Greece for a week is $6,568-$28,107 ($938-$4,015 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $258 to $537 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $3,628 to $15,990 for first class

Lodging : $189 to $356 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $697 to $1,393 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Greece Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Greece is lower than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Greece due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Greece Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Greece hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Greece.

Flight Costs to Greece

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,510 average in mid December to a low of $823 in mid October. Median flight price is $697. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Greece our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has much more variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Greece, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $687, so you can easily save about 83% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Greece can easily cost $244 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $16 per person. Private tours can cost $489 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Greece Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Metamorfosi, Greece
• Acharnes, Greece
• Lykovrysi-Pefki, Greece
• Peristérion, Greece
• Marousi, Greece
• Kifisia, Greece
• Exarhia, Greece
• Omonia, Greece
• Chalandri, Greece
• Metaxourgio, Greece

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Oleta River State Park, the United States
• Lake Eola Park, the United States
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How Much Does a Trip to Greece Cost? 

Key Takeaways

• The high-season summer months from June to August are more expensive due to increased demand . The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn can offer more favorable prices and pleasant weather.
• It's advisable to compare prices from different airlines and consider booking in advance to secure better deals.
• Major cities and popular tourist destinations like Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos generally have higher accommodation costs compared to smaller towns or off-the-beaten-path locations.
• Ferry tickets tend to be more afffordable , especially for shorter distances, while flights offer faster travel but can be more expensive.

How much does a trip to Greece cost? This guide details the actual costs of traveling to the various Greek islands and cities and how to make the most out of your travel budget. 

Greece is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. In 2021, the country recorded 15.2 million tourists — a figure that is likely to rise each year. These tourists flock to the country to experience its beautiful islands and cities and the gorgeous weather. 

Greece can be an affordable destination, depending on how you spend your money. Whether you're a family, couple, backpacker, or solo traveler, below are all the costs you can expect when visiting Greece.  

Tip:  For more information, check out this  Greece travel guide . 

Is Greece an Expensive Place to Visit? 

Many people assume that a trip to Greece costs a fortune. This may be due to the abundance of oceanfront hotels and resorts that flood our Instagram feeds.  However, while parts of Greece are more expensive, the country is a relatively affordable place to visit ,  especially compared to other E.U. countries . 

Some of the more expensive islands in Greece include Mykonos, Santorini, and Zykenthos. Cities like Athens are also on the pricier side, especially for those traveling on a budget. Visiting these towns and islands may cost more, but there are plenty of ways to save money during your Greece vacation.  

One way is to spend time on some of the cheaper islands in Greece. This includes the likes of Crete, Kos, Rhodes, Kythnos, and several others. These destinations are generally affordable when it comes to accommodation costs. There are also cheaper places like hostels on the more popular islands. 

How to Cut Down on Greece Costs

Getting around Greece is also relatively cheap. Many affordable transportation options will get you from point A to point B. It's also easy to save on meals.  Greek food  is relatively inexpensive, particularly at tavernas and other local establishments. 

Another Greece vacation cost you will incur pertains to activities and attractions.  Some tours are subject to overpricing, so keep an eye out for the best deals.  There are also several cheap or free activities that can fit any travel budget. 

So if you're wondering, 'is Greece expensive?', the answer is no — provided you make the right decisions. If you stay in a budget hotel, use local transportation and slower ferries, and eat at local restaurants, you will save money.  

For a further look at how much it will cost you to visit Greece , the article will discuss the actual costs of flights, accommodation, transport, food, and tours in the sections to follow. 

How Much Do Flights to Greece Cost?

The first and often one of the most significant travel costs is airfare. This can eat up quite a bit of your budget when traveling to Greece, as there aren't many direct flights available. Often, your journey will include a connecting flight. 

So how much should you budget for airfare?  Flight prices will depend on the airline you travel with, whether you fly economy or business class, the country you're traveling from, and the part of Greece you're traveling to . To give a general overview, we will look at the cost of top airlines for some of Greece's leading travel markets.

The majority of tourists traveling to Greece come from E.U. countries, particularly Germany and France. Other countries sending a high number of tourists to Greece include the United States, the United Kingdom, and Russia.  

Cost of Flights From EU Countries to Greece

It is possible to get a relatively cheap flight to Greece from various countries in the E.U.  Good international airlines to fly with include British Airways, Air Berlin, Air France, Lufthansa, Aeroflot, and American Airlines.  

If you're traveling from Western Europe — namely France, the Netherlands, Italy, and Germany — you'll be able to get direct flights to most parts of Greece, including the  Greek islands . However, most people visiting the country will need to travel via Athens. 

Here are the prices for roundtrip economy flights to Greece from several E.U. countries to get an idea of what you can expect to pay. The prices below are for Lufthansa, as this is one of the most popular airlines in the E.U.:

• Germany (Berlin to Athens): $173 — $210 (€160 — €193)
• France (Paris to Athens): $173 — $270 (€160 — €248)
• Italy (Rome to Athens): $150 — $190 ( €137— €175)
• Spain (Barcelona to Athens): $160 — $250 (€147 — €230)
• Turkey (Istanbul to Athens): $160 — $310 (€147 — €285)

Cost of Flights From the United States to Greece

Top airlines traveling from the United States to Greece include American Airlines (A.A.), Emirates, Delta, and United Airlines. Each of these provides flights from different parts of the U.S. However, A.A. provides the most, with as many as 14 flights traveling between the U.S. and Athens each week. 

When traveling to Greece from the U.S., your airfare will vary depending on which state or airport you're traveling from.  Below is a look at the average costs from different parts of the U.S.: 

• New York to Athens: $500 — $1200 (€460 — €1100)
• San Diego to Athens: $880 — $1500 (€810 — €1380)
• Los Angeles to Athens: $600 — $1100 (€550 — €1010)
• Washington D.C. to Athens: $575 — $1200 (€530 — €1100)
• Las Vegas to Athens: $1100 — $1400 (€1010 — €1290)
• Austin to Athens: $1100 — $1400 (€1010 — €1290)
• Denver to Athens: $1300 — $1600 (€1200 — €1470)

Cost of Flights From the United Kingdom to Greece

When traveling from the United Kingdom to Greece, your options for airlines are endless. Top picks include Ryanair, British Airways, and Aegean Airlines. These all offer frequent flights directly to Athens from London and Manchester.  

Like most countries in Europe, airfare from the United Kingdom to Greece is not too costly.  Here are the average prices for Greece flights with British Airways:

• London to Athens: £112 — £255 (€135 — €305)  
• Manchester to Athens: £215 — £420 (€260 — €505)

How Much Does Accommodation in Greece Cost?

The next cost to consider when planning your trip to Greece is where you choose to stay.  This will vary depending on the type of accommodation, the number of nights you're staying, and the part of Greece you'll be visiting . 

To help you get a better idea of how much you will need to spend on a place to stay, let's look at the price of different accommodations in some of Greece's most popular cities. 

Note:  The prices shown are for two adults during peak season. Prices shown are expected to be lower during the off-season. 

The only accommodation found in Athens was simple chain hotels and hostels in the past. Today, however, you will find a colorful selection of hotels and guesthouses in the Greek capital. 

You'll find several five-star hotels and resorts in central Athens, including the  Wyndham Grand Hotel , if you're looking for luxury accommodation. While more expensive, the views of the Acropolis or Lycabettus Hill from the rooms make it worthwhile. There are many more luxury hotels in Athens. Most of these range between $150 (€125) and $450 (€375) per night. 

For mid-range accommodation, consider the  Wyndham Athens Residence . This is a stunning hotel in the heart of Athens. At this hotel, a night for two costs around $135 (€112), though you may find similar properties for as little as $70 (€58).

If you're a backpacker or budget traveler, you'll find plenty of affordable accommodations in Athens.  Hostels are a popular option as they are often near some of the city's most vibrant bars and restaurants. Average prices range between $20 (€17) and $43 (€35) per night.  

Tip:  For more luxury hotels and resorts, check out these  Greek accommodations . 

Mykonos is one of the most popular destinations in Greece and a favorite amongst tourists due to its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and photogenic town. But unfortunately, it's also known for housing some of the country's most expensive hotels and resorts.

The Rocabella Mykonos is a luxurious hotel situated on one of the island's most popular beaches. It boasts spectacular views and offers a wide range of world-class amenities.  A night at this five-star accommodation is around $577 (€532) for two, though prices on luxury beach resorts can be as much as $1000 (€922).  

Mid-range accommodations aren't much cheaper. Three-star hotels have an average price of $250 (€210) to $800 (€500). Vacation rentals or B&Bs are also around the same price per night. For affordable accommodation in Mykonos, Airbnbs might be your best option. 

Santorini is one of the most famous Greek Islands. It is a volcanic island renowned for its unique whitewashed buildings and incredible views over the Aegean Sea. 

The island also has several hotels, resorts, and guesthouses.  Five-star accommodations are generally found near the beach and have a price tag of around $400 (€370) to $1000 (€922) a night.  

If you're  visiting Santorini on your honeymoon , consider the  Perivolas Hotel . This is an elegant hotel located on a cliff above the Aegean Sea. 

Unlike Mykonos, mid-range accommodations in Santorini are relatively affordable. For example, you can stay at a three-star hotel for $120 (€110) a night. Many of these hotels also offer breathtaking views over  Santorini's beaches  and a wide range of amenities. 

Many low-cost apartments and rentals are also available if you're traveling on a budget. These go for $80 (€73) a night. 

Thessaloniki

Located on the Thermaic Gulf is the port city of Thessaloniki. This is arguably the most beautiful city in Greece and is popular for its vibrant culture, bustling nightlife, and sandy beaches.

Another reason why this city is a favorite amongst tourists is its relatively affordable accommodation.  Here, five-star hotels charge between $100 (€92) and $200 (€185) a night. In addition, many of these feature gourmet restaurants, outdoor pools, a spa, and a prime location, so you'll undoubtedly be getting your money's worth. 

Mid-range hotels are more abundant in this part of Greece, so there are plenty of options for those on a smaller budget. These accommodations generally cost around $50 (€46) and $90 (€83) a night.

For backpackers, consider the Stay Hybrid Hostel. For just  $46 a night , you'll have a comfortable place to stay right in the heart of Thessaloniki. 

Anyone who loves sightseeing should include Crete on your list of Greece destinations.  This is the largest Greek island and is home to hundreds of ancient ruins . It also boasts gorgeous landscapes, pristine beaches, and some of the best wine and food pairings. 

When it comes to accommodations, Crete offers plenty of hotels and resorts. Most high-end resort rates fall between $200 (€185) and $500 (€460). A good pick is the luxurious  Dome Zeens Chania . Here you'll find all the amenities needed for the perfect beach vacation. 

Three-star accommodations are plentiful in Crete, too. Depending on the property type and location, these generally charge around $80 (€73) to $150 (€125) a night. While cheaper, many of these still find themselves on Cretes' magnificent beachfront.  

There are also several hostels situated throughout Crete. Prices range between $20 (€17) and $80 (€73) a night, making it ideal for those traveling on a budget. Some guesthouses also come with a similar price tag. 

How Much is Transportation in Greece? 

Greece is a beautiful destination, and in Athens, many of its top attractions lie within walking distance of one another. For this reason, many can argue that the best way to get around its gorgeous cities is on foot. 

While walking is convenient and cheap, many must-visit places are a bit further out.  Luckily, there are several affordable forms of transportation in Greece . For example, you can go island hopping on the ferry or book a car rental to travel the Greek countryside. Let's take a look at some options below. 

Metro, Bus, and Tram 

Apart from walking, the best and easiest ways to get around Greece are by train, bus, or tram. In Athens, the Metro system comprises three lines that connect to the tram, bus routes, and suburban railway. 

The metro operates daily from 5 am. Metro lines run until midnight or 2 am, depending on the line and day of the week. The suburban railway runs daily from 4:30 am until 11 pm. For more information, check out this  Athens metro guide . 

Greece also features an extensive bus network that runs daily from 5 am until midnight. In the cities, Greece buses depart frequently — just be sure to check your route's timetable. Trams operate around the same time schedule. If you're looking to travel from Athens to the seafront neighborhoods of Faliro, Piraeus, and Voula, this is your best option. 

The metro, bus, and tram are all accessible using the same ticket. You'll find these tickets at booths and machines in the metro, bus, and tram stations. A single ticket price starts at around $1.50 (€1.38) for a 90-minute ride .  Daily and five-day tickets are sold at $4.40 (€4) and $8.85 (€8.15), respectively. 

Another good option is the 3-day tourist ticket. These cost around $22 (€20), provide unlimited travel, and include airport transfers.

Taxis are another easy way to get around Greece. You'll find licensed vehicles ready to take you to your next destination throughout the various cities. Each of these features a meter, which charges passengers a fare relative to the distance traveled. 

To board a taxi, you will need to pay around $1.30 (€1.20).  You will then need to pay a certain amount for every mile traveled. This is generally around $0.60 (€0.55) per mile during the day and $1.11 (€1.02) per mile at night. Of course, the latter applies to rides outside the city too. 

Depending on where you're traveling, the cost can quickly add up. Hidden charges like tips are also standard.

Note:  There are several taxi services available in Greece. Some of these include Beat, Uber, and Taxiplon. 

Rental Cars

If you're looking for more flexibility, consider getting a rental car. Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and Sixt all operate at  Athens International Airport  and elsewhere in the city. 

While driving a car rental offers plenty of freedom, it has its downsides.  Fuel is relatively expensive, costing around $2.23 (€2) per liter.  Driving in Greece  is also not so simple as the traffic in its major cities tends to be heavier, particularly during the morning, afternoon, and Friday and Saturday nights. 

Several parking lots are located throughout Greece's cities, though street parking is not too easy to find. If you happen to find parking, you'll need to purchase a ticket. These have a rate of $1.25 (€1.15) per hour. 

Note:  For car rentals, you will require a valid driving license. This includes a European driving license for E.U. citizens and an international driving permit for other nationals. 

Ferry 

Plenty of boats and ferries sail between various parts of Greece, including some of the best Greek Islands. Most islands are accessible via Athens, making  island hopping  relatively easy. The best ports are Piraeus and Rafina, as these serve the most considerable number of Greek ferries. 

You'll also find daily ferries between Mykonos, Naxos, Ios, Paros, Crete, and Santorini. 

Ferry ticket prices vary depending on your route and the offer, seat type, and cabin selection.  For example, if you're traveling from Piraeus to Mykonos (3 hours 50 minutes), ticket prices range from $22 (€20) and $42 (€39) for a standard ferry. For a similar ticket to Santorini (6 hours 30 minutes), the average price is around $43 (€40). 

Tip:  To check the timetables, costs, and schedules of different routes, visit  FerryHopper.com . 

How Much Does Greek Food Cost? 

If there's one thing you cannot miss when visiting Greece, it's the food. Greek food is a popular cuisine in many countries, but nothing beats authentic dishes served in their homeland. 

Compared to other countries in the E.U., food in Greece is relatively affordable.  With so many incredible restaurants, coffee shops, and bars throughout the city, you'll have plenty of options for each meal. 

A typical Greek breakfast generally comprises a lovely selection of bread, pastries, fruits, and Greek yogurt. Most hotels and resorts also serve guests magnificent breakfasts. 

If your hotel does not include breakfast in your stay, make your way to a local café.  Here you'll be able to grab a toastie or pastry and a coffee for as little as $4 (€3.70) per person.  

If you're a late sleeper, you'll be delighted to know that there are many incredible brunch spots throughout Greece. 

When it comes to lunch, you'll have plenty of options. If you're looking for something budget-friendly, visit neighborhood restaurants for the best souvlaki dish or head to a taverna for a hearty meal. This will cost you between $12 ($11) and $15 (€13.80) per person. 

For those on the move, grabbing some traditional Greek fast food is another good option and can cost you as little as $5 (€4.60) per person.  This is ideal for anyone on a tighter food budget.

For dinner, many incredible restaurants serve delicious Greek cuisine and fresh seafood. This includes both budget-friendly and fine-dining establishments. Generally, a meal at a restaurant will cost you between $10 (€9.22) and $25 (€23) per person. 

Where it begins to add up is with the drinks, costing around $5 (€4.60) for a beer (0.5-liter draught) and up to $18 (€16.60) for a mid-range bottle of red or white wine. 

If you're staying in self-catering accommodation, you'll be able to grab a meal at various restaurants, cafés, tavernas, and bars. You may also need some food staples and ingredients to make your own meals should you choose to dine in. 

Make your way to a nearby grocery store or food market, and you'll find plenty of food items.  For staples, you can expect to pay around $1.30 (€1.22) for a liter of milk, $1$1 (€0.90) for a loaf of bread, and $1.90 (€1.73) for a bag of rice.  

Proteins are more expensive and will cost you between $7 (€6.75) and $10 $10 $10 (€9.23) per kilogram of chicken or beef. For a more budget-friendly option, you can get a dozen eggs for about $3.40 (€3.12). 

How Much Is a Trip To Greece: Activities and Attractions

When planning your vacation to Greece, the final costs to consider are the various activities and attractions. Apart from the time spent at your accommodation, this makes up the bulk of your trip. 

Each of Greece's cities and islands offers its own unique set of things to see and do.  To provide a good look at what you may need to budget, here are some of Greece's best activities and attractions. 

Athens: Acropolis 

One of the  best things to do in Athens  is visit the famous Acropolis archeological site.  These  Athens tours  generally include visiting the UNESCO-listed site and the adjacent museum. 

Tours to Acropolis  go for  $42 per person . With this ticket, you will be able to explore the ruins and discover some of the most important works of contemporary architecture. This includes the Theater of Dionysus, the Temple of Nike, the Parthenon, and the Erechtheion. 

Santorini: Volcanic Island Cruise 

When you think of a Greece vacation, one activity that comes to mind is the luxurious  day cruises . Some of the best cruises are in  Santorini's Caldera region . 

A good pick is this five-hour  Santorini sailing cruise .  For $162 (€150) per person, you'll be able to explore the volcanic islands and the Aegean Sea.  You'll also stop by the volcanic hot springs, perfect for an afternoon swim. 

Thessaloniki: Mount Olympus

One thing Thessaloniki is known for is its scenic,  off-the-beaten-path  hiking trails.  One of the best hikes on the Greek Islands is Mount Olympus.  There are three official ways to reach the top of this mountain — Prionia being the easiest and most popular. The other routes are more strenuous and require a fair amount of climbing. 

Another fun way to experience Mount Olympus is on a guided tour. These full-day excursions usually include a visit to the ancient theater of Dion and a short trek to the Epineas Gorge of Mount Olympus. Trips cost around $60 (€55) and are a must for nature lovers and history buffs alike. 

Crete: Wine Tasting

Some consider Greece to be the 'new European wine country,' competing with the likes of Italy and France. It has a rich winemaking tradition, with Crete being one of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world. In addition, the Greek island is home to many indigenous varieties and has terrains and a climate well-suited to producing wine. 

One of the best ways to experience the country's winemaking history is through a wine tasting.  For just $70 (€65), take a  day tour from Chania  and explore the various family wineries throughout the region. You'll also get to sample some award-winning local wines and see the oldest olive tree in the world.

Mykonos: Delos 

The ancient island of Delos is a must-see Greek attraction.  It is an archeological site that boasts a rich history. The ancient stone huts found on the island suggest that it has been inhabited since the 3rd millennium B.C. It is also said to be the mythological birthplace of the Greek god Apollo. 

There are private tours that visit Delos. Some of the most notable ones travel from Mykonos. So if you find yourself staying on this island, a day trip to Delos is a must and will cost you around $193 (€178) per person. 

Zakynthos Island: Navagio Shipwreck Beach

One of the most popular  shore excursions in Greece  is Navagio Shipwreck Beach. With soft white sands, crystal blue waters, and views over the Ionian Sea, this is one of the most picturesque places to visit.   

Navagio Shipwreck Beach is a popular day trip amongst tourists in Greece.  Guided tours take visitors by boat towards Zakynthos Island, stopping by the Navagio viewpoint. This trip's ticket is about $50 (€46) per person. 

Free Things to Do in Greece

The cost of visiting some of Greece's top tourist attractions adds up quickly, but there are ways to have fun and save money. 

Some of the best things to do during your trip to Greece for free involve spending time outdoors.  This includes visiting the country's  best beaches , exploring its beautiful cities (either with the help of a car rental or not), and discovering its many natural wonders and ruins. 

Some other notable attractions and activities for those looking to spend a bit less include: 

• Picnics at the National Garden
• Free  walking tours  with a local guide. 
• Explore Anafiotika and Plaka 
• Visit a free museum or art gallery 
• Marvel at the architecture throughout the major cities
• Hike the trail Fira - Oia
• Visit the Monolithos Castle
• Watch the sunset 
• Take a walk along Dionysiou Areopagitou  
• Soak up the sun on Paradise Beach

How Much Does the Average Trip to Greece Cost? 

Now that you know the costs of traveling to Greece, how much will you need to budget? Below is a breakdown of the average prices for a two-week trip to Greece for two people. Note that we have not included flights as this will vary depending on where you're traveling from. 

• Accommodation:  $2100 USD (€1940) / $150 USD per night at a mid-range hotel
• Transportation:  $60 USD (€55) metro services for 14 daily tickets, $200 USD (€185) ferry for five trips
• Meals:  $490 USD (€450) food / $35 USD (€32) per day, $210 USD (€201) drinks / $15 USD (€13.83) per day
• Activities: $1154 USD (€1065) based on the six tours mentioned above  

Based on these estimates, a two-week trip to Greece costs around $4214 (€3886) on average for two people — excluding airfare. 

Final Thoughts

If you've planned your budget accordingly, you won't have to worry about money while on your Greece trip.  The guide above highlighted the essential costs of visiting this beautiful, sun-kissed destination. 

The guide also includes tips for saving money. So no matter your travel style — be it luxury or backpacking — you'll be able to plan a vacation that best suits your budget. 

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Greece itineraries today! You can be at Athens international airport in no time! Check out these incredible  Greece vacation packages  to help you get another step ahead. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are food and dining expensive in greece.

The cost of dining out in Greece can vary depending on the type of establishment and the region. Local tavernas and street food options are generally more affordable than upscale restaurants. Exploring local eateries and trying traditional Greek dishes is advisable to experience the local cuisine without breaking the bank.

How much does island hopping in Greece cost?

The cost of island hopping in Greece will depend on factors such as the number of islands visited, the distance traveled, and the mode of transportation (ferries or domestic flights). Ferry tickets tend to be more economical, especially for shorter distances, while flights offer faster travel but can be more expensive.

What additional expenses should I budget for when traveling to Greece?

In addition to transportation and accommodation costs, it's important to budget expenses such as meals, activities, and attractions (entrance fees to archaeological sites, museums, guided tours), transportation within Greece, travel insurance, souvenirs, shopping, and any optional excursions or experiences.

Here's how you can visit Greece on a budget

Jun 7, 2023 • 9 min read

Enjoy your Greek Islands holiday for longer with these tips for traveling on a budget © Vladimir Vladimirov / Getty Images

Greece’s popularity means there’s competition for travelers on a budget. But by shopping around, and keeping a few key strategies in mind, you can have a memorable visit without going broke in the process. Just be aware that in the peak summer season, like elsewhere, deals are much more elusive in Greece .

What's the cheapest way to get to Greece?

From europe.

The best affordable way to reach Greece from Europe is by plane, and your options are myriad. To Athens , budget carriers like easyJet and Ryanair have everyday cheap fares from across Europe, as do traditional carriers such as Air France and Lufthansa . Greece’s national carrier  Aegean Airlines  also offers cheap fares to Athens from all over Europe. Whether flying to Athens or directly to an island from Europe, take time to compare the fares as deals usually abound. 

You can fly direct to islands with international airports, such as Crete , Mykonos , Rhodes and Santorini . Most of these flights are run by charter carriers and are very cheap. Online travel booking sites will show many of these flights. 

Note that if you are flying a route to an island that involves a connection in Athens, it is often cheaper to get a fare to Athens and then purchase a separate ticket to the islands. However, this works best if you only have carry-on bags. Otherwise, you will need to retrieve your checked bags in Athens and recheck them for your flight to the island.

Alternatively, you can fly to Athens and then get a cheap ferry ride out to the islands from the port of Piraeus . Allow, at minimum, three hours for this transfer, which involves taking the frequent express bus from the airport. A better option is breaking your journey in Athens , where you can enjoy a glimpse of the Parthenon and a night in Plaka before continuing on your ferry.

From North America

The three main US carriers fly from their hubs in the east non-stop to Athens in the summer season. These flights are popular and tend to sell out, so unless you get a deal early, the cheapest option will be an itinerary that connects at one or more hubs to reach Athens. The same applies to flights from Canada.

From the rest of the world

Whether flying from Asia, Africa, the Middle East or Oceania, you'll find that many options for flights to Athens include a connection in Europe, the Middle East or North Africa. There’s no secret to cheap fares here; once you know your dates, start shopping as early as possible and compare the fares from as many airlines as possible.

May and October are the sweet-spot months to visit

July and August are the peak travel times for Greece, and there are few deals to be had. Airfares, ferry prices and accommodation rates are at their highest. Many places offering the best value sell out quickly, leaving people who wait to firm up their summer plans to pay the price.

June and September can be slightly cheaper than the very peak season. The shoulder months are great times to travel as all the ferries are running, every business is open, and the weather is excellent. The best deals on flights and accommodation may be a little more available than in July and August.

For many seasoned travelers to Greece, May and October are the sweet-spot months to visit the country. Just about everything is open and running, but there are fewer people, and rates and prices can fall by 25% or more. These are good months to find reasonable fares on non-stop flights to Athens from the US as well.

The off-season from November to April can be a rewarding time to visit Greece, but it comes with many caveats. The weather is often crisp and rainy, so this is not the time for a beach holiday. Much is closed, especially on the islands. Accommodation choices outside Athens are constrained, and flights and ferries to the islands operate at a very low level. The cheap charter airlines cut their schedules entirely. Rather than reduce their fares to attract passengers, major airlines simply cut their flights to Athens and deploy their planes to warm-weather destinations.

Want some help? Let Elsewhere plan your next trip.

Accommodation deals depend on the season and how early you book

As always with travel, plan your trip as early as possible to secure the best deals on accommodation.

In the peak summer season, rates are at their highest. Don’t expect to find a brilliant double room in a popular destination for €50 ($58), but if you book early, you might find a great room for €150 ($173) as opposed to a room for the same price – or more – overlooking the trash cans in the alley.

During the high season, it also pays to consider package deals for Greece. Booking sites and airlines often offer all sorts of discounts if you book everything through one company. But also note that package accommodation deals are usually at large resorts or vast generic holiday apartment complexes, which may or may not be in an inviting part of your destination. Package deals are not where you’ll find the quaint little room with a view at an indie inn.

Also, note that the days when elderly ladies met ferries with offers of cheap spare rooms are long gone. Everything is on booking sites like booking.com , Airbnb  and Vrbo .

In shoulder season, rates may be lower, and the choice of accommodation isn't snapped up as quickly – yet more reasons to consider travel in May, June, September and October.

From November to April, rates fall but so does availability as many places to stay close entirely. Note that holiday apartments may not have heating, so check carefully.

Choose how to get between the islands

Island-hopping is one of the real pleasures of Greek travel. Lounging on a deck while gliding past idyllic islands is part of many a traveler’s fantasy. Ferry fares tend to be consistent, but you can save money with a few strategies:

• Book early (as always!). Larger boats often offer advance-purchase fares at significant savings from walk-up fares.
• Compare prices. On competitive routes such as Athens to Mykonos, several ferry companies offer service in summer, and fares can vary a bit between them. Use online booking sites such as Ferryhopper to compare options.
• Go slow. On routes where there are large traditional ferries and flashy fast ferries, the slow boats are almost always cheaper. One hidden benefit of the slow boats is that they usually have large amounts of deck space, so you can live that Greek fantasy and watch the islands glide by. Many fast ferries have little or no deck space, so you spend the journey locked up in charmless lounges.
• In summer, there are also inter-island flights and much more frequent airline service to and from Athens, but the popularity of the flights means that deals are few. Watch out for major Greek holidays when locals buy up every airline (and ferry) seat to return to their home islands.

Pick your transport to explore the mainland

Greek buses are cheap, modern and reasonably comfortable. Every village has at least some service, although the smallest villages may not have much.

Although the train network is limited, fares are cheap where the trains run, and the seats are very comfortable. The route linking Athens and Thessaloniki is the real star, with fast trains linking the two cities in a little over four hours – faster than is possible by bus or car.

As elsewhere in the world, rental car prices have shot up in Greece. Your own wheels offer maximum flexibility but come at a cost. Deals are few, although you may be able to save by booking a car as part of an airfare and accommodation package.

One strategy to save money on car rentals is only renting cars on days when you need the flexibility and convenience to do some exploring .

Weigh your options for getting around the islands

On an island like Hydra , where all motor vehicles are banned, your options to get around the island are simple and free: you walk. However, on most islands, you’ll again be weighing the cost of a car versus the inconvenience of a bus. Popular islands will have summer-season buses serving popular destinations and beaches, so the strategy of renting a car only for certain days of exploration holds. Tiny rental companies exist on many of the islands in addition to the large chains, but in peak season, don’t expect any better rates from local vendors.

It’s usually easy to rent a scooter or motorbike from a local vendor. Budget about €20 to €40 ($23 to $46) for this. But make sure the rental comes with a helmet included, and you should know how to ride one before you rent one.

Steep hills, narrow roads and other challenging conditions, including the sun and heat, mean riding a bicycle is an activity chosen for the fun of it rather than a practical means of getting around easily.

Save on entrance fees

Paying to see museums, ruins, historic sites and other attractions is relatively inexpensive in Greece as entrance fees are set not to bankrupt the local citizens. But don’t forget to look for discounts for students and people under 26 or over 60 (eg, this means a 50% reduction in fees at the Acropolis in Athens, etc).

All beaches are free. Yes, you can pay for a pricey lounger, but there will always be a portion of the beach where you can smooth out your own towel and enjoy the same water.

Enjoy a good, cheap meal

Obviously, the waterfront restaurant or stylish cafe on a popular beach are not the places to go for a decent budget meal . But affordable options abound across Greece as local people also want to eat out but can’t afford tourist prices.

In every popular area from the heart of Athens to the smallest island village, step a street or two away from the buzz, and you’ll likely find shops selling souvlaki (grilled meat) sandwiches on pita and other Greek treats. You need not succumb to the siren call of the pizza joint or burger stand – although there are plenty of these – to get a good, fresh meal of Greek food for well under €10 ($12).

Bakeries sell sandwiches and other prepared foods, and even the smallest supermarket likely has a deli case filled with meats, cheese and prepared foods like tzatziki.

Drink for less

Supermarkets also sell cheap cold beer and wine. You can enjoy sitting on the rocks while savoring the same sunset as the people at the nearby pricey taverna. Spirits are always expensive.

Daily Costs

• Inter-island ferry ticket: from €20 ($23)
• Hostel room: €25-60 ($29-70)
• Basic room for two: €50-140 ($58-162)
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): €100-300 ($116-347)
• Public transport ticket: €1.20 ($1.30)
• Coffee: €2 ($2.30)
• Souvlaki sandwich: €4-6 ($4.60-7)
• Dinner for two: €40 and up ($46)
• Beer at a cafe: €3-6 ($3.50-7)
• Beach lounger: €5-10 ($5.80-12)

This article was first published November 2021 and updated June 2023

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Plan A Trip To Greece – Travel Tips And Advice From A Local

Plan a trip to Greece with these travel tips and advice by a local. Includes when to visit Greece, travel costs, where to go in Greece and more, to help you plan the perfect Greek vacation itinerary.

How to plan a trip to Greece

Greece! The birthplace of western civilization, the land of the Acropolis and the famous Santorini, Mykonos, Ancient Mycenae and Ancient Delphi.

There are dozens of Greek islands, tons of UNESCO sites, hundreds of beaches, ancient history and natural wonders, all waiting to be discovered by you.

With so many choices of places to visit, deciding where to go in Greece can be overwhelming. Where on earth are you supposed to start? The short answer is, right here!

I’ve created this post to help you make the best Greece travel plan on your own, even if you have never been here before. Let’s start with a brief introduction to Greece.

Introduction to Greece and the Greek islands

Greece is a small, mountainous country in South Europe. It is most famous for its incredibly long coastline with hundreds of Greek islands , most of which are clustered in different island groups .

However, mainland Greece has an extremely varied landscape with mountains, gorges, plains, lakes and rivers.

First-time visitors are usually overwhelmed by the abundance of places to see, in combination with the number of ancient sites. This article about the famous attractions in Greece is a good starting point to find out about Greece’s highlights.

Many areas in Greece are famous for their winding streets, hilly terrain and hundreds of steps. If you are travelling with children or people with limited mobility, you will need to take that into account.

Let’s follow a few simple steps to build your perfect Greece vacation itinerary.

Step 1: Decide what you want out of your Greek holiday

The first and most important step when planning a trip to Greece is to decide what you want out of your holiday.

As an example, you could ask yourself these questions:

• Am I interested in history and culture, or do I prefer to relax on the beautiful beaches?
• Do I want lots of nightlife and crowds, or am I after nature and quietness?
• Am I interested in visiting the bigger cities, like  Athens , the capital city, and Thessaloniki , or is the idea of  Greek island hopping  more appealing?
• Do I want to see the popular destinations, like Santorini and Mykonos , or would I rather visit some quiet islands ?
• If I go to any Greek islands, am I happy to take ferries or do I prefer to fly?
• Do I want to drive in Greece?
• Am I planning to travel around independently, or is it better to use one of the numerous Greece tours?

Most travellers will probably want a mix of the above. At the same time, some people might not be too interested in beach time, while others won’t care about our museums. Everyone is different, and there is no right or wrong preference.

Answering these questions, and any others you can think of, is crucial when you are planning a vacation to Greece. Your answers will determine how much of the country you can see during your trip, and where to go.

Step 2 – Study a map of Greece

If you want to plan your own Greece travel itinerary, the first thing to do is to study a map of Greece. Thankfully, with Google Maps, this is very easy these days.

If you are flying from overseas, you may be arriving at the Athens airport first. Central Athens is a 40-60 minutes drive from the airport, and you can easily get there by metro , bus , taxi or pre-booked transfer .

You can reach any Greek island with an airport on a 40-50 minute flight from Athens. By contrast, islands without an airport can take several hours to get to on a ferry .

In addition, some places in mainland Greece, like Ancient Delphi or Meteora , can only be reached by land, and are a few hours away from Athens.

Your friends who have been to Greece will come up with different islands that they fell in love with. They may mention Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, Kefalonia, Crete or Rhodes.

Check out all these places on the map, and you will find that they are all in different areas.

My best advice – Choose a combination of places in Greece that are relatively close to each other, or at least are not too far away. Then, check if direct connections exist between your dream destinations.

Related article: Best apps to use for your trip to Greece .

Step 3 – Do you really want to include Athens, Mykonos and Santorini in your Greece itinerary?

The combination Athens – Mykonos – Santorini  is the most common route that first-time visitors to Greece think of, and a very popular itinerary.

In fact, if you are planning a trip to Greece through your local travel agency, you might not even be presented with an alternative choice. So what do I think to this combination?

Is Athens worth visiting?

I am an Athenian, and therefore biased, but I think you should really include the Greek capital in a first-time Greece itinerary.

Apart from the world-famous Acropolis, Ancient Agora and Acropolis museum, Athens has a lot more to offer in terms of history. Or if you don’t want to visit the ancient ruins , you can simply walk around them for free and enjoy the ambiance.

You can discover more about Athens and its magic in this article with the 30 best things to do in Athens . It includes tips on the most picturesque neighborhoods, like Plaka , Anafiotika and Psiri .

Of course, like most major cities in the world, Athens is not perfect. Many visitors find it too noisy, too messy and too dirty. They probably have a point – but I see it as part of its unique charm!

Are Mykonos and Santorini the best Greek islands to visit?

Most travelers will want to visit Santorini and Mykonos. Our two most popular islands, which are both in the Cyclades group, have almost mythological status in people’s minds, and are on everyone’s bucket list.

Let’s face it though – The original charm of these two islands is tainted somewhat by the high prices and huge numbers of other tourists, many of whom arrive on cruise ships.

There are many other islands that I personally like a lot more than Santorini and Mykonos, as they are quieter and more authentic. Here’s an introduction to the Cyclades islands , where I’m also listing my personal favorites.

However, if it’s your first time visiting Greece, you will probably want to include Santorini and / or Mykonos in your Greece itinerary. Here is some more information.

Should I visit Santorini?

The Greek island of Santorini is really a very unique and romantic place. The landscapes and views to the volcano are stunning, and the famous Oia sunset is worth seeing once in your life.

This 4-day Santorini itinerary will introduce you to the best things to do on the Cycladic island.

However, bear in mind that Santorini usually receives about 2 million visitors a year. If you can, try to visit Santorini in winter , or at least shoulder season, when it’s relatively quieter.

This is when I did the popular hike from Fira to Oia , on the west coast, and had an absolute blast.

If you visit in summer, be prepared for crowds, high prices, traffic and lack of parking space. Here’s a fun guide with  things to avoid when visiting Santorini .

Is Mykonos worth the hype?

If I had to choose any of the Greek islands in summer, it wouldn’t be Mykonos. Quite a bold statement, isn’t it!

Now, don’t get me wrong. Mykonos is a pretty island, and it has some of the best sandy beaches in the Cyclades.

I was lucky to visit Mykonos without the crowds in June 2020, and couldn’t believe how fantastic the beaches were! I took a great kayak trip , and a day-trip to Ancient Delos , so I loved my time there.

However, on most years, Mykonos can get extremely crowded and insanely expensive. Many of the beaches are packed with loud bars, loungers, umbrellas and various water sports.

I have met dozens of foreign visitors who didn’t think much to Mykonos Town, the island’s capital, and thought it was overpriced and overrated.

At the same time, I know people who return to Mykonos every year to enjoy the famous party scene and busy beach clubs.

All in all, it’s your call. If you decide to visit Mykonos, I’d love to know your opinion, so feel free to leave a comment down below.

Step 4 – How long to spend in Greece

How much time you have is one of the most important factors when you are planning your vacation to Greece – or anywhere for that matter.

As an example, if you only have one week in Greece, it’s unrealistic to plan trips to seven different areas. You will end up seeing lots of airports, ports and highways, but you won’t see much of the country.

That said, few people have more than two weeks in Greece. Many visitors only have a week, and they try to squeeze in as much as they can.

If this is your style of travel by all means do it, at the same time try to appreciate the “ siga siga”  Greek culture – slowly slowly.

Example itineraries for Greece

If you have a week in Greece, starting and ending in Athens, my suggestions are:

• Spend a couple of days in Athens, and visit one or two of the Greek islands
• Allow for a couple of days in Athens, and hire a car to tour around the Peloponnese and visit Ancient Mycenae , Nafplion and Ancient Epidaurus
• Spend a couple of days in Athens, and take a couple of day trips from Athens , or visit one of the islands close to Athens .

If you have two weeks in Greece, you can visit multiple islands on an island hopping trip , or go for a longer road trip including Western or Northern Greece.

Here are a few more ideas for a 2-week Greece itinerary .

Step 5 – When to visit Greece

Greece enjoys the so-called Mediterranean climate. We have warm, dry summers, with blue skies and very low rainfall.

Due to the warm weather, Greece is predominantly thought of as a summer destination. The busiest months are July and August, followed by June and September.

However, some visitors avoid the peak months as the crowds are bigger and prices are higher.

If you have a flexible schedule, visiting Greece outside peak season might work in your favour. Hotels will be cheaper, you will meet fewer crowds, and the temperatures are actually more pleasant.

With the exception of Santorini, Crete, Corfu and Rhodes , most islands will be fairly quiet outside the summer months. Swimming might be a bit of a challenge in spring, but will be fine in autumn.

In my opinion, if you want to take full advantage of the beaches in Greece, the best month to visit is September. The water temperature is warmer than during the summer months, and you will enjoy some quiet time.

As for spring and autumn, even though the weather can be variable, with a few rainy days, it will be pleasant for the most part. This is the best time to visit the archaeological sites in Greece, as you won’t get the scorching summer sun.

Here are some more tips on  the best time of year to visit Greece . Note that our winters are much milder than other European countries, but they can still be be surprisingly cold and rainy.

If the only time you can travel to our country is summer, check out these  tips for travelling to Greece in summer . And if you can visit later in the year, check out the hottest Greek islands in October .

And finally, check out my ultimate guide with what to pack for Greece , for all four seasons.

Step 6 – Budget for your vacation in Greece

Another thing that is crucial when it comes to planning your Greece vacation is your budget.

Contrary to popular belief, your Greece trip cost doesn’t have to be sky-high. Let’s break down possible costs when travelling to Greece.

Cost of accommodation in Greece

Accommodation in Greece can be fairly inexpensive. Depending on where you go and what time of the year you travel, it is possible to find a budget room for a couple for around 30 euro.

Realistically, if your Greek trip is in summer, you would want to budget for at least 50-60 euro for a decent room, though you might be able to find something more wallet-friendly.

If you are on a tight budget, you will notice that hostels are not as popular as in other countries. However, there are a few in the bigger cities and the most popular islands.

On the other hand, if you want to splurge, you will find plenty of opportunity, especially in places like Santorini and Mykonos. Santorini hotels with a view to the caldera can easily climb up to over 1,000 euro a night – but you will remember that vacation forever!

I personally use Booking.com to find apartments and rooms to let in Greece. In my experience, it has a much wider selection and better prices than other platforms, and usually offers better terms. 

Cost of road transportation in Greece

Transportation in Greece is not always wallet-friendly – certainly not for Greeks. In fact, if you decide to rent a car and drive around Greece , transportation might actually turn out to be your highest cost.

While many of the motorways in Greece are brand new and fantastic, there are also many toll stations. Also, the price of gas is rather high, compared to other countries in the EU, and much higher than in the US.

If you prefer not to drive, public buses are pretty good. Prices vary a lot, so you will have to check the price for the trip you want to take. As an example, a bus ticket from  Athens to Delphi is about 15 euro.

Due to serious flooding in September 2023, the trains in Greece are not running properly, and it’s not certain when services will resume. You can check the latest info on the train website . 

Another option is to take an organized tour, that will take the hassle away. Here is a popular organized tour to Delphi and Meteora , which includes transportation to and around the Meteora monasteries.

Cost of ferries and flights in Greece

Ferries and flights are popular ways to get around Greece and the Greek islands.

The cost of ferry tickets depends on the distance and the type of ferry you are using. 

Generally speaking, there are two types of ferries: the slow ferries and the fast ferries. 

• The slow ferries are much more comfortable to travel on, you can go for a walk on the deck, and behave better on windy days. A well-known operator running slow ferries is Blue Star Ferries. One-way tickets from Piraeus to most of the Cyclades islands start at around 35-40 euro.
• The fast ferries, many of which are run by a company called SeaJets, take less time. However, there is no outdoors seating. Plus, the ride will be bumpy, or might even get cancelled, on a meltemi wind day. One-way tickets start from about 70 euro and can cost over 100 euro.

Overall, I use slow ferries whenever I can, as they are bigger, more comfortable, and also cheaper. If you are pushed for time, at least try to avoid the smaller fast ferries, which have no vehicle capacity.

You can check ferry routes and book your tickets on Ferryscanner .

Domestic flights in Greece can be quite costly. If you are flying from the Athens International Airport to an island, book your connecting flights as early as possible. Last minute prices can get really high.

Note that, with a few exceptions, there are no direct flights between the Greek islands, and you would have to connect in Athens. The best way to visit islands in the same island group is usually by ferry.

Cost of meals in Greece 

Most visitors find that food in Greece is generally good value. Obviously it depends on where you are and what you are eating, but it’s easy to eat at a nice Greek  taverna   with about 15 euro per person.

If you are interested in fresh fish or gourmet cuisine, you will need to budget a lot more for a meal in Greece. Similarly, if you are visiting places like Mykonos and Santorini, you could easily spend 100 – 200 euros per person for just one meal.

People who are on a budget can always stick to street food or fast food, like souvlaki , gyros and bakery goods. You can also do some shopping at street markets or supermarkets, and cook at the place you are staying.

Cost of sightseeing in Greece

The cost of sightseeing in Greece depends on the individual attraction. The most popular archaeological sites and museums are more expensive.

As an example, the  combined ticket for the Acropolis and the other sites in Athens  costs 30 euro. Prices for the individual sites decrease during the winter months.

If budget is not a concern, you should visit the sites and museums with a guide, who will help you understand more about our fascinating history and life in Ancient Greece.

If you are travelling with children, you could consider doing some sort of Greek Mythology travel itinerary. There are several tour companies specializing in guided tours and Greek mythology tours .

At the same time, there are usually some free activities in most destinations. Here are some  free things to do in Athens .

Greece is not expensive

From all the above, you have probably seen that you can easily explore Greece, appreciate its natural beauty and enjoy some beach life on a budget.

My partner and I usually end up spending about 40-50 euro per person per day. Here is an article with our budget on a month-long island hopping trip around the Cyclades, including a couple of day trips to small islands. I’m sure you will agree that Greece isn’t expensive !

Step 7 – Prepare for the occasional strike

You may have heard about it, and it’s absolutely true – sometimes, there are  strikes in Greece . These generally affect public transportation, including ferries, trains and the  Athens metro  and buses.

The strikes are often announced only a couple of days in advance, and there is no way to predict when a strike is going to happen. That said, the 1st of May is always a strike day for ferries and most means of transport in Athens.

The most valuable suggestion I can give you is the following: If you are arriving to and leaving from Athens, it’s best to spend the last few days of your trip in the capital. This way you won’t be stuck on an island if a last-minute ferry strike is announced.

You could also consider getting travel insurance, which will cover you in case of strikes.

Have a look at this list of things you should know about Greece , apart from strikes.

Step 8 – Learn a few words in Greek

And now for something fun! While English is widely spoken in Greece, I would recommend trying to learn a few words and phrases in Greek .

You could also have a look at the Greek alphabet . Believe it or not, our alphabet has remained the same since the times of the Ancient Greeks. Then you may be able to read some of the inscriptions you will see in the museums and ancient sites.

Or, you might be keen on learning how to swear in Greek !

FAQs about planning a trip to Greece

Here are some questions often asked by people planning to visit Greece:

How much does it cost to plan a trip to Greece?

The cost of a trip to Greece can vary significantly, and it depends on the places you visit as well as the time of year. While it’s possible to travel for about 40-50 euro per person per day, it’s advisable to budget for more than that. Expect to pay around 100-150 euro per person per day, especially if you are visiting the most expensive destinations.

How do you plan a trip to Greece?

If you want to plan a Greek vacation, begin by asking yourself what you want out of your holiday. Afterwards, study a map of Greece, read about the attractions and best places to go, and decide how many of these places you can visit in the time you have.

What is best time of year to go to Greece?

The best time of year to visit Greece is spring, the beginning and end of summer, and early autumn. If you can, avoid peak season (July and August) as it tends to get more crowded (and expensive).

What is the cheapest month to travel to Greece?

Two of the cheapest months to travel to Greece include November and February. While this is not the best time to go to Greece if you want to spend time on the beach, you will see a totally different side of the country.

What should I avoid in Greece?

The number one thing you should avoid in Greece, is throwing toilet paper in the toilet. The sewage system in many areas is a bit dated, and the last thing you want on your Greek holiday is a clogged toilet. Just use the bin, and everything will be fine!

Here’s why you shouldn’t flush paper down the toilet in Greece .

Have a look at these other articles:

• 22 beautiful places to visit in Greece
• Athens to Thessaloniki by train
• Athens in November
• Little Kook in Athens

Start planning your trip to Greece today

With all the above in mind, you will hopefully be a little closer to planning your dream Greek trip. So why don’t you start putting your notes together!

Hi, I’m Vanessa from Athens and I hope this guide has helped you think about your future trips to Greece! If you have any specific questions, please ask in the comments section, and I’ll get back to you with personalized suggestions and advice! Feel free to follow my FB page for news and ideas about Greece.

3 thoughts on “Plan A Trip To Greece – Travel Tips And Advice From A Local”

Useful and succinct info for people. Thank you. I like the suggestion of a 1-week stay best staying IN Athens and day tripping out. Does that also apply to staying on the outskirts, or periphery, of the city and tripping in to the city for site-seeing as well as island excursions? Kevin

Where were you thinking to stay? Some people plan to stay on the Athens coast (e.g. Faliro, Glyfada, Voula or Nea Makri on the other coast) and take day trips into the center. This would require a lot of driving / taxis. If your main aim is to sightsee in the centre, I would personally suggest staying in the centre, but if you are only interested in the highlights that can be covered in two or even one days it would be fine to stay on the coast.

That’s an amazing information, Vanessa. You are right, planning for Greece gets overwhelming with so much choice and information. I’m glad I found your blog. Thanks for simplifying.

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The Real Cost of Traveling to Greece: A Guide to Budgeting

From sun kissed beaches to elegant ancient ruins, Greece has something for everybody. Whether you’re heading for the romance of the islands, or shitting the shops in Athens, getting around easily is an essential part of enjoying your trip. In this post, we’ll talk you through how to get around Greece, where to stay, what to eat and, most importantly…how to budget for it all!

Types of accommodation on offer

When visiting Greece, the types of accommodation available to you are much the same as in any other country, but you need to go equipped with knowledge of prices!

Simple, no frills, with communal bathroom – can be found in most Greek cities. If you’re happy sharing a bedroom with other travellers, expect to pay €10 – €15 per night. For a private dorm, you’re looking at no lower than €30 – €60 per night.

If you’re visiting Greece’s cities, you can find a budget hotel for €40 – €6o per night if you’re prepared to put the work in. If you’re booking in a hurry, your average hotel price in Athens is around €220 per night.

Prices for whole-property rentals have risen across Europe since Covid. In a Greek city such as Thessaloniki, you should expect to pay at least €50 per night for a private flat that sleeps two people.

As with any holiday, the further ahead you plan, the cheaper you will get your digs. Also look at staying on one of the islands, like Aegina, and travelling to and from Athens. The surrounding islands are often cheaper to stay on than the mainland, and are just as beautiful and worthy of an exploration!

Lastly, it’s always worth considering a visit off-season as this will drastically reduce your travel and accommodation costs.

Public transport

Public transport in Greece can be confusing for those not accustomed to it. With popular routes being operated by a number of different private companies, finding one reliable timetable can prove almost impossible. Here’s a brief overview of how you can get around in Greece…

KTEL, (the Joint Association of Bus Operators) is a network of Greek bus services made up of a dozen or more private companies -with not one central website for times and information! If you’re using a KTEL, it’s best to google your route well in advance to allow time to work out your plan of action. Don’t be put off, though, as these buses are a fantastic way to explore Greece.

You can also look for discounts by booking through the Trainose mobile app. Ferries are a fantastic and scenic way to visit the Greek islands. You can book ferries easily online through Ferryhopper. Be sure to compare routes and times to get the best price.

Over the last decade, Greece’s train service has gone through a bit of an upgrade and offers a very easy and comfortable way to see the country. From Athens you can visit many of the smaller towns and cities like Thebes and Thessaloniki. Prices vary depending on time of day and distance travelled, but as an example, the town of Kalambaka is 5 1⁄2 hours train ride from Athens, and the journey will set you back around €30.

If you’re ordering a cab in Greece ahead of time, consider booking it through apps like Beat or Taxiplon, as these will give you an estimated fair and let you know when your driver is due. Taxi fares differ from city to city, but you should expect to pay an average of €4 just for getting in a cab, with the average tariff being €1.30 per kilometre.

One ticket to rule them all

In Greek cities, you can buy a single ticket that grants you access to a variety of public transport including busses, trains, ferries and metro. As a rough guide, a single ticket for public transport in Athens will cost you less than €2, and is valid for 90 minutes. Within

those 90 minutes you are entitled to any number of journeys. There are other ticket types available, with a five day transport pass coming in at less than €90.

Food and entertainment

Greece has a lot to offer in terms of night life and cuisine, with traditional theatre sitting alongside nightclubs and authentic cuisine sharing menus with exciting gastronomic experimentation. If you’re looking to go for broke, casinos are all the rage in Greece, while a more conservative night at a cinema will cost you on average of €8.55 a ticket.

When it comes to eating out, prices vary wildly from city to city, from street to street. Street food vendors offer fantastic kebabs and souvlaki for €3-€4, while high end dining can cost upward of €35 per person for a three course meal. (Not including booze!) In the middle, you have the Tavernas which offer incredible and authentic Greek cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere – and you can pick up moussaka and a drink for a respectable €10!

Additional costs

Budget as best you can, but there’s always the odd little surprise charge that leaves a dent in your pride (and your wallet)

While working out your allotted spends, always try and allow a little extra to just enjoy a bit of shopping! Greece is considered a Mecca for retail, with jewellery stores to electronics and furs.

Guided tours are also an excellent way to see Greece, but aren’t always cheap. You can expect to pay €20 per adult to enter the Acropolis (less if you visit off season, of course), while food or wine tasting tours in Greece start at around €100 per person per day.

There are a number of “jump the queue” websites that allow you to book tours and museum tickets ahead of time, and it’s worth doing so as you will often save a good amount of money.

When travelling through Greece, be it by ferry, train, boat or bus, the most important thing to do is plan ahead! Here’s a little recap to help you!

• Look for digs on the islands for a better price
• Remember, everything is cheaper off season
• Allow plenty of time to plan public transport routes
• Budget extra if you can!

If you’d like to read more, check out the links below for more information.

Until next time…happy budgeting!

Greece Travel Cost – Average Price of a Vacation to Greece: Food & Meal Budget, Daily & Weekly Expenses | BudgetYourTrip.com

Getting around in Greece – Lonely Planet Home | Hellenic Train

Related Posts

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How much does a trip to Greece cost?

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• Greece travel costs

If you’re planning on travelling to Greece, you’re probably wondering how much you need to budget for your trip. While your travel costs will depend on your travel style, generally speaking Greece can be a surprisingly affordable place to travel.

Accommodation costs are generally affordable and food and drinks are reasonably-priced. Many of Greece’s best attractions are very affordable or even free and, while some activities could set you back a fair amount, there’s plenty to do at lower price points too.

How much should I budget for a trip to Greece?

A reasonable budget for two for a week in Greece is around €1,257 .

The above cost is based on staying in good, mid-range accommodation and having a few meals out per week, while preparing some yourself . It makes allowances for a couple of sightseeing activities, but doesn’t take into account expensive activities like adventure sports or private tours.

Generally speaking, the longer you travel, the cheaper it costs per day, while fly-in, fly-out trips can be more expensive.

How much does accommodation cost?

You can expect to spend between €40-€100 a night, per couple, on accommodation in Greece. This will get you a private room with your own bathroom in a 3-4-star hotel or apartment rental.

Hostels are, of course, cheaper, but a private room with a shared bathroom will still cost around €35 per night. A bed in a dorm room also averages around €15 per night, per person, although there are definitely cheaper options out there.

How much should I budget for food and drinks in Greece?

Budget to spend around €447 for two for a week in Greece. This assumes you’re cooking some of the time and drinking some alcohol.

If you enjoy eating out, you can expect to pay around €49 for a nice dinner for two, including an alcoholic drink. A meal at a pub is likely to be around €33 for two, with cheaper meals available (especially for lunch) for around €14 each.

Assuming that you’ll be eating out some of the time, budget at least €40 a week for groceries. If you enjoy a few drinks, you’ll need to increase this amount – beer costs around €4 for a 500ml bottle and good bottle of wine is around €10 , from a shop, although there are cheaper options available. Milk typically costs around €1 for a two-litre bottle and you can expect to pay around €4 for a cappuccino from a local café.

How much does it cost to get around Greece?

Getting around Greece is easiest with a bus. Transport costs fluctuate depending how much you travel, but budgeting around €200 for two per week is a good starting point. This should allow you to take a couple of longer bus trips. If you’re planning on doing any tours or using hop-on hop-off buses, you’ll need to up your budget a bit.

The above budget should also cover one-way ferry tickets to one of the Greek islands. However, if you're travelling on a fast ferry or to multiple islands in a week, you'll want to budget a bit more for travel costs.

What should I expect to spend on activities?

A lot of the best things to do in Greece are free. However, there definitely are some attractions that cost money – entry fees to a museum or an art gallery are usually around €10 - €20 per person. If you want to do organised day trips or join smaller tour groups to learn more about some of the sites, budget around €80 per activity per person.

Greece is a beautiful destination to visit and can be an affordable place to travel. Cooking your own meals, carefully selecting accommodation or limiting meals out will definitely help you to reduce your travel costs. Slow travel is another great way to help your budget to stretch further, while exploring a place in more depth.

Travelling through Greece is definitely possible on a budget – just pick your priorities and compromise on the rest or consider travelling in the off-season and avoiding school holidays to cut down on costs. And, if you’re on the luxury end of the scale or wanting to treat yourself, the sky’s the limit.

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Last Updated 15 August 2023

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Is Greece Expensive To Visit: Travel Costs

Introduction

Greece, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and captivating culture, is a popular travel destination for people from all over the world. From exploring ancient ruins to basking on picturesque islands, Greece offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. However, one common concern among prospective visitors is the cost of traveling to Greece. Is Greece an expensive destination?

The answer to this question depends on various factors, including your travel preferences, budget, and the time of year you plan to visit. While Greece can be an affordable destination, it is important to be aware of the potential expenses you may encounter during your trip.

In this article, we will provide an overview of the factors that influence travel costs in Greece, including accommodation, transportation, food, attractions, and shopping. We will also share some tips and strategies to help you save money while enjoying all that Greece has to offer.

Whether you are a budget-conscious traveler or someone willing to splurge on luxurious experiences, this guide will help you navigate the costs associated with traveling in Greece.

Overview of Greece

Greece, located in southeastern Europe, is a country renowned for its historical significance, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It is known as the birthplace of Western civilization and the origin of democracy. With its vast stretches of coastline, picturesque islands, and majestic mountains, Greece offers travelers a diverse range of experiences.

When planning a trip to Greece, it is essential to consider the different regions of the country. The capital city of Athens is a must-visit, housing iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis, Parthenon, and ancient theaters. The historical city of Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, offers a blend of ancient history and modern urban vibes.

One of the main attractions of Greece is its islands. From the popular tourist destinations of Santorini and Mykonos to the more secluded and off-the-beaten-path islands like Milos and Naxos, each island has its own unique charm. Visitors can indulge in crystal-clear turquoise waters, breathtaking sunsets, and traditional Greek cuisines.

Greece is also renowned for its rich culinary scene. Traditional Greek cuisine features fresh ingredients, fragrant herbs, and flavorful dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava. Exploring local taverns and street food markets is a great way to experience the country’s gastronomic delights.

Furthermore, Greece offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, sailing, and exploring archaeological sites. The country is home to impressive natural wonders, such as the Meteora rock formations and the Samaria Gorge.

Overall, Greece offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences that make it an attractive destination for travelers from around the world.

Factors That Influence Travel Costs in Greece

When it comes to traveling in Greece, several factors can influence the overall cost of your trip. Understanding these factors can help you plan your budget and make informed decisions regarding your expenses. Let’s take a closer look at the main factors that influence travel costs in Greece:

• Season: The time of year you choose to visit Greece can greatly impact your expenses. Peak tourist season, which typically falls between June and August, tends to have higher prices for accommodations, flights, and attractions. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) for more affordable rates while still enjoying pleasant weather.
• Accommodation: The type of accommodation you choose will play a significant role in your expenses. Luxurious resorts and upscale hotels can be quite expensive, especially in popular tourist areas. However, there are also plenty of budget-friendly options such as guesthouses, hostels, and rental apartments that offer affordable rates.
• Transportation: Getting around Greece can vary in cost depending on the mode of transportation you choose. Flying between islands can be more expensive than taking ferries, and renting a car can be pricier than using public transportation. Planning your transportation expenses in advance and opting for cost-effective options can help you save money.
• Food and Drink: Dining out in Greece can range from budget-friendly options like street food and local taverns to upscale restaurants that cater to international cuisines. Opting for traditional Greek dishes and exploring local markets can provide a more affordable culinary experience.
• Attractions and Activities: Greece is home to numerous attractions and activities, some of which may have entry fees. Prioritize the ones that interest you the most and allocate your budget accordingly. Additionally, consider exploring free attractions, hiking trails, and public beaches for more budget-friendly options.
• Shopping: As a traveler, you might be tempted to shop for souvenirs or local products. Keep in mind that touristy areas tend to have higher prices. Consider visiting local markets, where you can find unique items at more reasonable costs.

By considering these factors and planning your expenses accordingly, you can have a better understanding of the potential costs involved in your trip to Greece and make the most of your travel budget.

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation costs can significantly impact your overall travel budget when visiting Greece. The good news is that Greece offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference.

If you’re looking to save money on accommodations, consider staying in budget-friendly options such as guesthouses, hostels, or rental apartments. These options often provide comfortable amenities at lower prices compared to luxury hotels and resorts. Hostels are particularly popular among backpackers and solo travelers, offering affordable dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at reasonable rates.

If you prefer more comfort and amenities, there are plenty of mid-range and upscale hotels available throughout Greece. Prices for these accommodations vary depending on the location and the level of luxury offered.

When comparing prices, keep in mind that accommodation costs can vary depending on the season. During the peak tourist season, prices tend to be higher, especially in popular tourist destinations like Santorini and Mykonos. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) to enjoy lower rates while still experiencing pleasant weather.

Another factor to consider is the location of your accommodation. Stay in central areas of the cities if you want easy access to attractions, restaurants, and public transportation. However, if you’re willing to stay a bit farther from the popular tourist areas, you may find more affordable options without sacrificing on comfort and convenience.

Lastly, consider alternative forms of accommodation in Greece, such as camping or renting private villas. Camping grounds can be found in various locations, especially near beaches, offering a more adventurous and budget-friendly option. Renting a private villa can be a great choice for larger groups or families, as it allows for more space and privacy.

By researching and comparing accommodation options, booking in advance, and being flexible with your travel dates, you can find suitable accommodations that meet your budget while ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay in Greece.

Transportation Costs

Transportation costs can be a significant factor to consider when planning your trip to Greece. The country offers various modes of transportation, each with its own costs and considerations.

One of the most common ways to get around Greece is by using the extensive public transportation system. Major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki have well-developed metro and bus networks, which offer affordable fares for getting around within the city. Public transportation is a cost-effective option if you plan to explore cities and towns.

If you are planning to visit multiple islands, ferry travel is a popular and picturesque option. Ferry prices can vary depending on the distance and the type of ferry. High-speed ferries are generally more expensive than slower options. It’s advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best prices.

Domestic flights are also available between major cities and popular tourist destinations in Greece. While flying can save time, it is usually a more expensive option compared to traveling by ferry. However, there are often deals and promotions available, especially if you book in advance or during offseason.

Renting a car is another option for exploring Greece, especially if you plan to visit remote areas or prefer the flexibility of having your own transportation. Car rental prices can vary depending on the type of car, the rental duration, and the time of year. It’s important to factor in additional costs such as fuel, parking, and tolls.

For shorter distances or within cities, taxis can be a convenient but relatively more expensive mode of transportation. Make sure to ask for the meter to be turned on and, if possible, negotiate the price before getting in the taxi.

When it comes to transportation costs, it’s essential to research and compare different options based on your itinerary and budget. Consider the distance of travel, the time saved, and the overall convenience when deciding between different modes of transportation. Planning ahead and booking in advance can help secure lower prices for flights, ferries, and car rentals.

Lastly, walking is a great way to explore cities and towns, especially if the attractions are within a reasonable distance. It’s not only free but also allows you to immerse yourself in the local surroundings and discover hidden gems along the way.

By carefully considering transportation options and optimizing your itinerary, you can manage transportation costs effectively while enjoying the beautiful sights and experiences that Greece has to offer.

Food and Drink Costs

Greece is renowned for its delicious cuisine, and experiencing the local food is an integral part of any trip to the country. While dining out in Greece can range from budget-friendly to more upscale options, there are ways to manage your food and drink costs without compromising on taste and quality.

When it comes to dining out, exploring local taverns and small family-owned restaurants can be a great way to experience authentic Greek cuisine at affordable prices. These establishments often offer traditional dishes, such as moussaka, souvlaki, and Greek salads, made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

For those looking for a quick and budget-friendly option, street food is a popular choice. You can find souvlaki stands, gyro shops, and bakeries offering a variety of Greek snacks and pastries at affordable prices. Grabbing a delicious spanakopita or a gyro on the go can provide a satisfying and inexpensive meal.

Another way to save money is by exploring local markets and supermarkets. You can buy fresh produce, cheeses, bread, olives, and other traditional Greek ingredients, and have a picnic or prepare your meals. This is not only a cost-effective option but also gives you the opportunity to try local ingredients and create your own Greek-inspired dishes.

When it comes to drinks, tap water in Greece is safe to drink. Carrying a refillable water bottle with you can help you stay hydrated without having to purchase bottled water. However, if you prefer other beverages, keep in mind that alcoholic drinks and imported beverages in restaurants and bars can be more expensive. Opting for local wines, beers, and spirits can offer a more budget-friendly experience.

It’s also worth mentioning that some restaurants in Greece offer “set menus” or “menu of the day” options, which provide a complete meal at a fixed price. These menus often include a starter, main course, dessert, and sometimes even a drink. Taking advantage of these options can help you save money while enjoying a wholesome Greek meal.

Lastly, tipping in Greece is common but not obligatory. In restaurants, it’s customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for good service. Keep in mind that some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so it’s always a good idea to check before tipping.

By exploring local eateries, trying street food, shopping at markets, and being mindful of drink choices, you can manage your food and drink costs in Greece without compromising on taste and culinary experiences.

Attractions and Activities Costs

Greece is a land rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a wide array of attractions and activities to suit every traveler’s interests. While some attractions may require an entry fee, there are plenty of ways to explore and enjoy Greece’s landmarks, sights, and activities while managing your expenses.

When planning your itinerary, it’s essential to prioritize the attractions and activities that interest you the most. While some famous sites, such as the Acropolis in Athens, do require a ticket for entry, there are often discounted or bundled tickets available that allow you to visit multiple attractions at a reduced cost. Additionally, some sites offer free admission on specific days or for certain age groups, so it’s worth checking the official websites or local tourist information centers for such information.

Exploring outdoor and natural attractions can be a budget-friendly way to experience Greece’s breathtaking landscapes. From hiking in the national parks of Mount Olympus or Samaria Gorge to visiting ancient ruins like Delphi or Olympia, many of these sights can be enjoyed with little or no cost. Pack a picnic and spend a day marveling at stunning vistas or wandering through historical sites.

Beach hopping is another popular activity in Greece, and luckily, the majority of its beaches are free to access. Spend a day soaking up the sun, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying the coastal scenery without spending a dime. Some organized beaches may charge for sunbeds and umbrellas, so if you prefer a more budget-friendly option, bring your own towel or beach mat and make use of the public areas.

Participating in local festivals and events can provide a rich cultural experience at little to no cost. Greece is known for its vibrant religious and cultural festivals that take place throughout the year. From traditional music and dance performances to religious processions and celebrations, these events offer a glimpse into Greek culture and are often free to attend.

Lastly, consider exploring alternative and off-the-beaten-path destinations that may have lower entrance fees or even free access. These hidden gems can provide unique experiences away from crowded tourist areas while offering a more budget-friendly adventure.

Remember to allocate a portion of your budget for activities that truly interest you, but also be open to discovering the simple pleasures of Greece that can be enjoyed without cost. With a careful selection of attractions and activities, you can make the most of your trip while managing your expenses.

Shopping Costs

Shopping in Greece can be a delightful experience, as the country offers a wide range of unique products and souvenirs. From traditional handicrafts to designer labels, there are plenty of shopping options to suit different tastes and budgets.

Keep in mind that shopping costs can vary depending on the location and the type of product you’re interested in. Touristy areas and popular islands often have higher prices compared to local markets and smaller towns. It’s worth exploring different areas and comparing prices before making a purchase.

When it comes to souvenirs, Greece is famous for its craftwork, including ceramics, jewelry, textiles, and olive wood products. These items are often handcrafted and can make for meaningful and unique keepsakes. Look for local artisan shops or markets where you can find authentic and reasonably priced souvenirs.

If you’re interested in fashion and designer labels, Greece has a range of boutiques and international fashion brands to explore. Syntagma Square and Ermou Street in Athens, as well as the high-end shopping areas in Mykonos and Santorini, are some of the popular destinations for fashion enthusiasts. Keep in mind that designer items come with higher price tags, so it’s important to set a budget and shop accordingly.

Food products are another popular item to bring back from Greece. From olive oil and olives to local wines and spirits, there are plenty of gourmet products to fill your suitcase. Explore local food markets or specialized shops to find high-quality products at reasonable prices. Be aware of customs regulations regarding bringing food products back to your home country.

When shopping in Greece, it’s always a good idea to engage in some friendly negotiation or bargaining, especially in open-air markets or smaller shops. While it may not always result in a significant discount, you can sometimes get a better deal or additional items included in your purchase.

Lastly, when it comes to shopping costs, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. It’s easy to get carried away with souvenirs and impulse purchases. Prioritize the items that are meaningful to you or that you genuinely need, and avoid unnecessary spending.

By exploring different shopping areas, supporting local artisans, setting a budget, and being mindful of the prices, you can enjoy a memorable and fulfilling shopping experience in Greece without breaking the bank.

Tips for Saving Money in Greece

While Greece offers an incredible travel experience, it’s always helpful to know some tips and tricks to save money during your trip. Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of your budget while exploring this beautiful country:

• Travel during the shoulder seasons: Consider visiting Greece during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when prices for accommodation, flights, and attractions are generally lower compared to the peak tourist season.
• Book accommodations in advance: Research and book your accommodations in advance to secure better rates. Many hotels and guesthouses offer early bird discounts or package deals, especially if you book directly through their websites.
• Use public transportation: Utilize the extensive public transportation system in Greece, such as buses and metro systems, which are often more cost-effective than taxis. Consider purchasing travel passes or cards that offer unlimited rides within a specific timeframe.
• Opt for local cuisine: Explore local taverns and street food stalls to enjoy authentic Greek cuisine at more affordable prices. Traditional dishes, such as souvlaki and moussaka, are not only delicious but also budget-friendly options.
• Be mindful of tourist traps: Be aware that restaurants and shops located in heavily touristy areas may have higher prices. Venture away from these areas to discover local gems that often provide better value for money.
• Stay hydrated with tap water: Greece has safe tap water, so rather than buying bottled water, carry a refillable water bottle with you. This small change can help you save money while reducing plastic waste.
• Take advantage of free attractions: Greece has numerous free attractions, including outdoor sites, public beaches, and local festivals. Research and prioritize these options to balance your budget without missing out on unique experiences.
• Shop at local markets: Visit local markets to buy fresh produce, souvenirs, and local products at more reasonable prices compared to tourist shops. Engaging in friendly negotiation or bargaining can also help you get better deals.
• Plan your activities and budget: Research and plan your activities in advance to allocate your budget accordingly. Check if there are any discounted or bundled tickets available for attractions and consider participating in free or low-cost activities.
• Travel and eat like a local: Explore the less touristy areas, eat where locals eat, and engage with locals to discover hidden gems and get insights on affordable off-the-beaten-path experiences.

Remember, saving money does not mean compromising on the quality of your experience. By implementing these tips, you can have a memorable and fulfilling trip to Greece while being mindful of your budget.

Greece offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that attracts travelers from around the world. While the cost of traveling to Greece can vary depending on various factors, it is a destination that can be enjoyed on any budget. By understanding the factors that influence travel costs, such as seasonality, accommodation, transportation, food, attractions, and shopping, you can better plan and manage your expenses to make the most of your trip.

Whether you choose to stay in budget-friendly accommodations, use public transportation, dine at local taverns, explore free attractions, or shop at local markets, there are plenty of ways to optimize your spending while still immersing yourself in the rich experiences that Greece has to offer.

Remember to plan ahead, research your options, and be open to discovering the hidden treasures and affordable pleasures of Greece. Engage with locals, try traditional dishes, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, and embrace the local way of life. By doing so, you not only save money but also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the country and its culture.

So, whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or looking to splurge on luxurious experiences, Greece welcomes you with open arms. With careful planning and a mindful approach to your expenses, you can create unforgettable memories and have an incredible journey through this enchanting country.

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

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Olympic flame for Olympic Games Paris 2024 lit in spectacular ceremony

The Olympic flame for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 burst into life today (Tuesday, 16 April) during a special ceremony at the archaeological site of Olympia—the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games.

During a ritual that links the modern Olympic Games to its ancient origins, the Olympic flame was lit in front of the ruins of the temple of Hera by an actress playing the part of the high priestess.

Several important dignitaries including IOC President Thomas Bach and Paris 2024 President Tony Estanguet were in attendance for the event, which marked the start of the flame's journey from Greece to Paris, where it will arrive on 26 July for the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Before the lighting of the Olympic flame took place, president Estanguet spoke of Paris 2024's responsibility to nurture the Olympic flame:

"Our role as organisers is to do everything we can to continue to nurture and grow this flame, in our country and around the world. One hundred years after the last summer Games in our country, the people of France will have the immense honour and pleasure of hosting this magnificent 33 rd Olympiad of the modern Games."

President Estanguet, who won three Olympic gold medals in canoe slalom, added:

"In line with the International Olympic Committee's Agenda 2020, we are proud that the Paris 2024 Games will not only be spectacular, but also more environmentally responsible, in order to meet the challenge of the century: climate change.

"Together, we're going to organise some great Games, and it all starts today, with the launch of the Olympic Torch Relay, which will cross the whole of France, from Marseille to Paris!"

President Bach then took to the stage to deliver his speech, where he stressed that the Olympic Games can bring the world together through peaceful competition.

"In ancient times, the Olympic Games brought together the Greek city states, even – and in particular – during times of wars and conflict. Today, the Olympic Games are the only event that brings the entire world together in peaceful competition. Then as now, the Olympic athletes send this powerful message: yes, it is possible to compete fiercely against each other and at the same time live peacefully together under one roof. The athletes will shine in their sport and show us what greatness humans are capable of with all their excellence, determination and resilience.

"The Olympic flame that we are lighting today symbolises this hope for a better future. The Olympic flame will carry this Olympic spirit from here, our ancient roots, through all of France and to Paris – making the City of Light shine even brighter.

"The Olympic flame will shine over the first Olympic Games inspired by our Olympic Agenda reforms from start to finish. These Olympic Games will be younger, more inclusive, more urban, more sustainable. These will be the very first Olympic Games with full gender parity because the IOC allocated exactly 50 per cent of the quota places to female and male athletes."

The Olympic flame was then brought forward by Greek actress Mary Mina, playing the role of High Priestess, who passed it to the first torchbearer of the Olympic Torch Relay: Greek athlete Stefanos Ntouskos , who won gold in the men's single sculls at the Olympic Games Tokyo 2020 in 2021.

After receiving the flame, Ntouskos carried the flame to the monument to Pierre de Coubertin, which holds the heart of the father of the modern Olympic movement.

Ntouskos then passed the flame to the second torchbearer of the relay, three-time Olympic medallist Laure Manaudou of France.

After a short run, Manaudou was met by the third torchbearer of the ceremony: Margaritis Schinas , vice-president of the European Commission.

The Olympic flame will now embark upon an 11-day relay throughout Greece that will see more than 550 torchbearers carry the flame, with the final destination being the Panathenaic Stadium for the handover ceremony.

When is the Olympic flame handover ceremony?

The Olympic flame will arrive in Athens ahead of the handover ceremony to the Paris 2024 organising committee at the Panathenaic Stadium on Friday 26 April, with the event getting underway at 18:30 CEST.

Following the ceremony, the Olympic flame will spend the night at the French Embassy in Athens before boarding the Belem (a famous three-masted ship that first launched in 1896) the following day to head for Marseille, France, where it will arrive to great fanfare on 8 May.

Where can I watch the Olympic flame handover ceremony?

The Olympic flame handover ceremony will take place on 26 April at 18:30 CEST and you can watch every moment live on Olympics.com .

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Olympic Torch Relay Story

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