Credit Cards in Greece: All you need to know

Greece has transitioned in recent years from cash-only transactions to mandatory credit card payments throughout its economy. Major credit cards are widely accepted in most urban areas, retail stores, supermarkets, hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments.

Travelers can generally rely on using a credit card for most transactions, especially in popular tourist destinations.

Debit cards can also be used while traveling in Greece. Contact your local bank before traveling to confirm charges and exchange rates.

Using foreign credit cards and debit cards in Greece

Foreign credit cards do work in Greece but vary in what they charge for foreign transactions and currency exchange rates. It is highly recommended to use credit cards that are “optimized” for using them abroad.

If you plan on using a car rental to drive on the Athens Mainland, all toll booths on motorways support credit-card payments.

Credit and debit cards widely accepted:

Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted credit cards throughout Greece. You’ll find them accepted at almost all hotels, restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions.

Credit and debit cards less widely accepted:

American Express and Diners Club are less commonly accepted, particularly in smaller businesses and more remote areas. It’s always a good idea to check with the establishment beforehand or have an alternative payment method available.

Local businesses denying credit cards as a method of payment

Travelers may encounter some businesses denying to accept credit or debit cards. This is especially true in remote areas of Mainland Greece or some remote islands. Restaurants, small kiosks and mini-market style shops are typically “demanding” cash, even thought they are not legally allowed to do so.

The typical reasoning is that the credit card processing terminal is not working or that there is no connection with the bank to be able to process credit cards.

Some souvenir shops, kiosks and other small shops may require a minimum amount for allowing credit card payments.

Government regulations have made credit card transactions mandatory throughout Greece. High processing fees are usually the real reason these businesses may offer excuses for enforcing you to pay in cash.

Tips for using credit or debit cards in Greece

Pay Larger Costs in Advance: Accommodation, flights or other larger transactions are best paid prior to your arrival at your Greece destination. 
Carry Some Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always wise to carry some travel cash for smaller transactions, tips, and purchases at local markets or in remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.
Inform Your Bank: Before traveling, inform your bank about your travel dates and destination to avoid any issues with your card being blocked due to suspicious activity.
Foreign Transaction Fees: Some credit cards may charge foreign transaction fees. Check with your bank to understand the fees associated with using your card abroad.
Cash Withdrawals are expensive: Charges for withdrawing cash are expensive and typically carry interest and fees. Depending on your home country, debit cards are cost effective for withdrawing cash. Spending on products and services is typically more cost-efficient than withdrawing cash.
Pre-paid travel cards: These types of cards offer competitive exchange rates and fees for foreign transactions.
Opt for more than one card: In case of an emergency, like a lost card, it can be difficult to have a replacement shipped to you quickly. It is best to have a second card from a separate provider so you are not stranded without one.
PIN is Essential: Most card transactions in Greece require a PIN. Ensure you know your PIN and that it meets the required format (typically 4 digits).

If you have to withdraw cash from an ATM cash machine (not recommended), always use one at the major Greek banks. This way you can avoid excessive charges.

How to pay with a credit card in Europe

Most common methods of payment are available throughout Europe, including of course Greece.

• Contactless payments: Just use a smartphone or a smartwatch connected to your credit card. Hold it near a contactless card reader and if needed verify the transaction with a face or fingerprint scan.
• Tap to pay: If your card supports this, just tap the contactless reader with the card to pay effortlessly.
• Insert card in the card reader of the payment terminal: If none of the above is supported you can simply enter your card in the card reader of the payment processing machine (terminal) and enter your PIN number to verify the transaction.
• Card swipe: Just swipe your card on the payment terminal and you are good to go, as long as your card has a magnetic stripe.
• Apple pay and Google pay: These services are also widely accepted among vendors.

With a little preparation and these tips in mind, you can confidently use your credit cards in Greece, making your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Understanding credit card processing in Greece

Many businesses in Greece still prefer cash, especially for smaller transactions. This does not mean the business is trying to avoid paying tax.

Banks and other financial institutions in Greece have been excessively overcharging businesses for credit card processing. Fees can be as high as 5% per transaction, depending on the card you use while traveling in the country.

Travelers can also get discounts for using cash.

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