Greece Travel Guide — Currency, Costs & Culture (2026)

Greece uses the Euro (EUR), symbol: €. Capital city: Athens. Region: Southern Europe. Primary language: Greek.

Government & practicalities: Head of state: Konstantinos Tasoulas (President). Government type: Parliamentary Republic. International calling code: +30. Drives on the Right. Power outlets: Type C/F, 230V. Internet domain: .gr.

What $100 USD typically buys in Greece

• 🥙 31 souvlaki wraps
• ☕ 26 Greek frappés
• 🍷 18 glasses of local wine
• 🏛 Admission to 9 ancient sites
• 🚌 77 Athens bus rides

Daily travel budgets in Greece

Budget travelers: €45–70/day (hostels, gyros, ferries). Mid-range travelers: €90–160/day (mid hotels, taverna meals). Luxury travelers: €300+/day (Santorini suites, private tours).

Typical local prices in EUR

• Souvlaki pita: €2.50–4
• Coffee (frappé): €2.50–4
• Taverna meal: €12–20
• Acropolis entry: €20
• Ferry Athens–Santorini: €35–70
• Budget hostel/night: €20–35
• Mid-range hotel/night: €70–130

Cultural tips for visitors to Greece

• 🤝 Handshakes standard; kisses on cheek among friends.
• ⛪ Dress modestly in Orthodox churches — covered shoulders and knees required.
• 😊 Greeks are famously hospitable — accepting offered food or coffee is respectful.
• 🕐 Meals happen late — dinner rarely before 9pm.

Tipping customs in Greece

Appreciated but not mandatory. Leaving 10% in restaurants is generous. Round up taxi fares.

Useful phrases in Greek

• Γεια σας (Yia sas) (Yah-sass) — Hello/Goodbye (formal)
• Ευχαριστώ (Efharistó) (Ef-har-is-TO) — Thank you
• Πόσο κάνει; (Poh-so kah-nee) — How much?
• Βοήθεια! (Vo-EE-thee-ah) — Help!
• Μιλάτε αγγλικά; (Mee-LAH-teh ang-lee-KAH) — Do you speak English?

Traditional foods to try in Greece

• Moussaka
• Souvlaki
• Spanakopita (spinach pie)
• Tzatziki
• Greek salad
• Grilled octopus
• Loukoumades (honey doughnuts)
• Feta cheese

Major landmarks and attractions in Greece

• Acropolis of Athens
• Santorini caldera
• Delphi
• Meteora monasteries
• Mykonos Old Town
• Palace of Knossos (Crete)
• Temple of Poseidon

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece

• Acropolis
• Delphi
• Meteora
• Mount Athos
• Pythagoreion and Heraion of Samos

Safety information for Greece

Greece is generally safe. Petty theft in Athens tourist areas is the main concern. Island towns are extremely safe.

Visa information for Greece

EU/EEA citizens need only an ID. US, UK, Canadian, Australian citizens can visit visa-free for 90 days. Schengen Area.

Emergency numbers in Greece

police: 100, ambulance: 166, fire: 199, tourist: 171

Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and vary by city, season, and travel style. Exchange rates and costs are for informational purposes only. Always verify visa requirements and safety conditions with official sources before travel. Information current as of 2026.