Currency Used in Greece: Euro Guide for Travelers Tourists

Currency Used in Greece: Euro Guide for Travelers Tourists

Planning a trip to Greece is exciting, whether you are dreaming of island sunsets, ancient ruins, or delicious Mediterranean cuisine. One of the most important practical details to understand before your journey is the currency used in Greece. Knowing how money works will help you budget wisely, avoid unnecessary fees, and enjoy your travel, sightseeing, holiday, or vacation without stress.

This complete guide explains everything you need to know about Greek currency, payments, exchange tips, and smart spending for your Greece travel packages.

What Is the Official Currency Used in Greece?

The official currency used in Greece is the Euro (€). Greece adopted the Euro in 2001, replacing the old Greek Drachma. Today, all daily transactions across mainland Greece and the islands use the Euro, including hotels, restaurants, transportation, shopping, tours, and sightseeing attractions.

Euro banknotes are the same across all Eurozone countries, while coins have a common European side and a Greek national side featuring historical symbols.

Common denominations:

  • Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 cents, €1, €2
  • Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200

For travelers booking Greece holiday packages or independent vacations, carrying a mix of cash and cards is ideal.

Can You Use Other Currencies in Greece?

In most cases, only Euros are accepted for daily purchases. Some hotels in tourist areas might accept US dollars or British pounds, but exchange rates are usually unfavorable.

To avoid extra costs:

  • Convert your money to Euros before arrival or at ATMs in Greece.
  • Do not rely on foreign currencies for restaurants, taxis, or sightseeing tickets.

If you are joining organized Greece travel packages, tour operators typically quote prices in Euros as well.

Best Ways to Get Euros in Greece

  1. ATMs (Recommended)

ATMs are widely available in cities, airports, ports, and popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. They usually offer the best exchange rates.

Tips:

  • Inform your bank before traveling.
  • Withdraw moderate amounts to reduce fees.
  • Avoid standalone ATMs with high commission charges.
  1. Currency Exchange Offices

Found at airports and tourist centers, but rates are often higher with service fees.

  1. Banks

Greek banks provide fair exchange rates but may have limited opening hours.

For smooth travel and sightseeing days, always keep some cash for small shops, buses, and local tavernas.

Credit Cards and Digital Payments in Greece

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially Visa and Mastercard. Hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, and tour companies usually accept cards.

However, cash is still useful for:

  • Small island villages
  • Local markets
  • Taxis
  • Tips
  • Small cafes and bakeries

Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly popular in major cities.

For holiday packages, deposits and balances are commonly paid by card or bank transfer in Euros.

Typical Costs in Greece (Using Euros)

Here is a general idea of everyday expenses:

  • Coffee: €2–4
  • Street food (gyros): €4–6
  • Restaurant meal: €12–25
  • Ferry ticket (islands): €30–70
  • Museum entry: €8–20
  • Hotel (mid-range): €100–180 per night

Prices vary by season and destination. Greece Islands in summer months are usually more expensive.

Money Tips for Greece Travel and Sightseeing

  • Carry small bills for taxis and small shops.
  • Avoid dynamic currency conversion when paying by card; choose EUR instead.
  • Keep emergency cash in a separate place.
  • Use hotel safes for extra money.
  • Track daily expenses to stay within your vacation budget.

If you are selling or booking Greece vacation packages, always clarify what is included (taxes, entrance fees, meals, and local payments).

Is Tipping Common in Greece?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

General guideline:

  • Restaurants: 5–10%
  • Tour guides: €5–10 per day
  • Drivers: €3–5 per day
  • Hotel staff: small change or €1–2

Cash tips are preferred.

Currency Used in Greek Islands

All Greek islands use the Euro, including:

  • Santorini
  • Mykonos
  • Crete
  • Rhodes
  • Corfu
  • Paros
  • Naxos

Remote islands may have limited ATM access, so withdraw enough cash in advance for your sightseeing Trip in Greece and daily expenses.

Safety Tips for Handling Money in Greece

Greece is generally safe, but basic precautions apply:

  • Use anti-theft wallets in crowded sightseeing areas.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  • Use ATMs inside banks when possible.
  • Keep photocopies of cards and passports.

These steps help ensure a smooth and worry-free holiday experience.

Final Thoughts: Currency Used in Greece

Understanding the currency used in Greece makes your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. The Euro is stable, widely accepted, and easy to manage with modern banking tools.

Whether you are planning independent sightseeing adventures or booking full Greece travel packages, being prepared with the right currency strategy will save you money, time, and stress.

Enjoy your vacation in Greece with confidence—and spend wisely while creating unforgettable memories.

Athens’ ancient ruins, like the Temple of Poseidon, tell fascinating stories

FAQs – Currency Used in Greece

  1. What currency is officially used in Greece?
    Greece officially uses the Euro, accepted nationwide for hotels, transport, sightseeing attractions, shopping, restaurants, travel services, and holiday packages.

  2. Should I exchange money before traveling to Greece?
    You can exchange beforehand, but ATMs in Greece offer better rates, convenience, and reliable access during Greece tours and vacation.

  3. Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece?
    Yes, most hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour companies accept cards, but small businesses prefer cash payments.

  4. Is it better to carry cash or card in Greece?
    Both are useful; carry cards for hotels and packages, and cash for taxis, small shops, and local sightseeing areas.

  5. Can I use US dollars or pounds in Greece?
    Rarely accepted; using Euros avoids poor exchange rates and complications during travel, shopping, and holiday activities.

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