Common Greece Traveler Questions Answered

As we have hosted thousands of travelers in our Athens apartments, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions regarding money in Greece.

1. What currency is used in Greece, and should I bring Euros with me before arriving?
Greece uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. It’s a good idea to bring some Euros with you for immediate expenses like transport or snacks upon arrival. However, ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas if you prefer withdrawing cash after you land.

2. Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece, or do I need to carry cash?
Credit cards are accepted in urban areas and at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, many smaller businesses, particularly on islands and in rural areas, prefer cash. Carrying Euros ensures you’re prepared for cash-only situations.

3. Which credit cards are most commonly accepted in Greece (Visa, Mastercard, Amex)?
Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards in Greece. While some establishments accept American Express, it’s less common. Always carry a backup card or cash to avoid inconvenience.

4. How much cash should I carry daily while traveling in Greece?
This depends on your plans, but €50–€100 per day is a safe range for meals, transportation, and small purchases. Adjust based on whether your accommodations or activities are prepaid and if you’re in a cash-heavy area.

5. Where can I find ATMs in Greece, and are they reliable in remote areas?
ATMs are easy to find in cities, towns, and tourist destinations. However, they can be scarce in remote villages or less-touristy islands. Plan your withdrawals in advance if you’re heading to such areas.

6. What are the fees for using ATMs in Greece with a foreign card?
ATM fees for foreign cards usually range from €2–€5 per transaction, depending on the bank. Additionally, your home bank may charge foreign transaction fees, so check their policy before your trip.

7. Is it better to exchange money at home or wait until I arrive in Greece?
Exchanging a small amount at home for immediate needs is wise, but ATMs in Greece generally offer better exchange rates than currency exchange offices. Avoid airport exchange counters as they often have high fees.

8. Are there currency exchange offices in Greece, and are their rates competitive?
Yes, you’ll find currency exchange offices in airports, tourist areas, and cities. However, their rates and fees are usually less favorable than ATMs. Use them only as a backup.

9. What is Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), and should I avoid it?
Dynamic Currency Conversion allows you to see charges in your home currency rather than Euros. While it seems convenient, it often comes with unfavorable exchange rates. Always choose to pay in Euros for better value.

10. Do Greek ATMs have daily withdrawal limits, and how do they affect foreign cards?
Yes, most Greek ATMs impose daily withdrawal limits, usually between €200–€500. These limits are separate from those set by your home bank, so plan your transactions accordingly.

11. What is the best way to avoid high ATM fees in Greece?
Use ATMs from major banks like Piraeus Bank, Alpha Bank, or Eurobank, as their fees are lower than standalone machines. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to reduce transaction fees.

12. Are there any scams involving ATMs or currency exchange in Greece that I should be aware of?
Scams are rare but can happen. Be cautious of ATMs that appear tampered with or standalone machines in tourist hotspots. Stick to bank-attached ATMs and count your cash before leaving the machine.

13. What are the tipping customs in Greece for restaurants, taxis, and hotels?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Greece. In restaurants, leave 5–10% for good service. For taxis, round up to the nearest Euro, and for hotel staff, €1–€2 per bag is appropriate.

14. Can I use contactless payments or mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay in Greece?
Contactless payments are becoming more popular in urban areas, and many businesses accept mobile wallets. However, smaller towns and family-run establishments may not, so have cash as a backup.

15. What should I do if I lose my credit or debit card while in Greece?
Immediately contact your bank to block the card and report the loss. Many banks offer emergency replacement services or alternative solutions, like temporary cards or expedited cash transfers.

16. Do I need to inform my bank before traveling to Greece to prevent card blocks?
Yes, it’s a good idea to notify your bank of your travel dates and destination. This prevents their fraud detection systems from flagging your transactions and blocking your card.

17. Are there specific banks in Greece that work with international cards for lower fees?
Some Greek banks have partnerships with foreign banks, reducing fees for their customers. Check if your home bank has an agreement with Greek banks like Piraeus Bank or Eurobank before traveling.

18. Is it possible to use traveler’s checks in Greece, or are they outdated?
Traveler’s checks are largely obsolete in Greece. It’s best to rely on a combination of cash, credit cards, and debit cards for your financial needs.

19. How can I protect myself from pickpockets or card skimming in tourist areas?
Use anti-theft bags or money belts to keep your valuables secure. Avoid using ATMs in isolated areas and inspect machines for signs of tampering before inserting your card.

20. What are the best ways to handle emergency cash needs if I run out of money in Greece?
If you run out of cash, consider using services like Western Union for money transfers, or contact your bank for expedited cash delivery. Hotels or embassies may also assist in emergencies.

21. How do ATM withdrawal limits differ for Greek bank cards versus foreign cards?
Greek bank cards often have higher daily withdrawal limits, while foreign cards are subject to lower limits based on the issuing bank’s policies and the Greek ATM’s restrictions.

22. Are ATMs in Greece available 24/7?
Most ATMs in cities and tourist areas are available 24/7, but access may be restricted in remote villages or less-populated islands, particularly during off-peak seasons.

23. Can I withdraw large amounts of cash in one transaction from Greek ATMs?
Withdrawal limits typically cap individual transactions at €500 or less, so you may need to make multiple withdrawals if you need larger sums. Be mindful of fees when doing so.

24. Do Greek ATMs dispense denominations other than Euros?
Greek ATMs only dispense Euros. If you need a different currency, you’ll have to use a currency exchange service, but these often have less favorable rates.

25. Are there ATM scams involving fake machines in Greece?
While rare, fake ATMs can exist in tourist-heavy areas. Stick to ATMs attached to reputable banks and avoid standalone machines in isolated spots.

26. Can I use prepaid travel cards in Greece?
Yes, prepaid travel cards loaded with Euros are a safe and convenient option. They work at most ATMs and are accepted by many businesses, offering an alternative to carrying large amounts of cash.

27. Do Greek ATMs display transaction fees before withdrawal?
Most Greek ATMs show the transaction fee on the screen before you confirm the withdrawal. Always review the fee before proceeding.

28. What’s the average cost of exchanging money at Greek airports?
Currency exchange kiosks at Greek airports tend to charge higher fees and offer worse rates than ATMs or exchange offices in the city. Avoid them unless necessary.

29. Can I withdraw small denominations like €5 or €10 from ATMs in Greece?
Most ATMs dispense a mix of €20 and €50 bills. Smaller denominations like €10 may be available but aren’t guaranteed, especially in rural areas.

30. Should I rely solely on ATMs for cash while traveling in Greece?
While ATMs are convenient, don’t rely on them exclusively. Carry a mix of cash and cards, and plan withdrawals in advance if you’re traveling to remote areas or during peak seasons.

This comprehensive FAQ should answer most questions travelers have about handling money in Greece.