Welcome to Greece, a land where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty. Planning your visit around its distinct seasonal shifts can unlock incredible experiences and significant savings, as prices fluctuate dramatically throughout the year.
Key takeaways for Greece: quick snapshot of costs, timing, and standout experiences.
Currency name
Euro
Currency code
EUR
Currency symbol
€
Phone code
+30
Population
10,400,720
Region
Europe
Capital
Athens
Coordinates
39.0000, 22.0000Greece is hot and sunny, attracting peak crowds, especially to the islands. All tourist services are fully operational, but demand is highest, leading to the highest prices for everything from flights and ferries to hotels and tours. Booking well in advance is essential.
Accommodation
Shared room, per person per night
High season
€25+ • per night
Dining out
Quick and satisfying meal
High season
€3.5+ • per meal
Transport
Single ride on bus, metro or tram
High season
€1.2+ • per ride
Things to do
Entry to historical sites like the Acropolis or Delphi
High season
€10+ • per entry
Accommodation
Shared room, per person per night
Hostel dorm bed
Shared room, per person per night
Budget hotel/guesthouse room
Private room, basic amenities, per night
Mid-range hotel room
Private room, comfortable amenities, per night
Apartment rental (1-bedroom)
Entire apartment, per night
Vacation apartment rental
Entire apartment (e.g., Airbnb) suitable for a couple or small family, price per night
Dining out
Quick and satisfying meal
Street food (Gyro/Souvlaki)
Quick and satisfying meal
Casual restaurant meal
Main course and a drink at a taverna
Mid-range restaurant meal
Two courses and a drink
Coffee and pastry
Standard coffee and a local sweet
Coffee and pastry
Standard coffee (e.g., espresso or cappuccino) and a typical Greek pastry (e.g., bougatsa)
Transport
Single ride on bus, metro or tram
Local public transport ticket
Single ride on bus, metro or tram
Intercity bus ticket
For a medium-distance trip (e.g., Athens to Nafplio)
Ferry ticket (short hop)
Between nearby islands or mainland to a close island
Economy car rental
Compact car, per day excluding fuel and insurance
Taxi fare (short ride)
Approximate cost for a 15-20 minute ride within a city, excluding airport transfers
Things to do
Entry to historical sites like the Acropolis or Delphi
Major archaeological site entrance
Entry to historical sites like the Acropolis or Delphi
Half-day boat tour
Excursion to nearby coves or islands, per person
Guided city walking tour
Professional guided tour exploring a city's highlights
Wine tasting experience
Includes several local wines and snacks
Beach club sunbed & umbrella
Rental fee for a set of two sunbeds and an umbrella at a popular beach club on islands like Mykonos or Santorini
Prices are indicative and may change based on availability, demand, and inclusions.
Welcome to Greece, a land where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty. Planning your visit around its distinct seasonal shifts can unlock incredible experiences and significant savings, as prices fluctuate dramatically throughout the year.
Greece's travel costs are heavily influenced by its distinct seasonal shifts, offering opportunities for both peak luxury and budget-friendly adventures. The high season, spanning June, July, and August, sees prices for accommodation, flights, and popular activities soar due to high demand and scorching weather.
Conversely, the low season from November to March presents the most significant savings, particularly for lodging and certain tours. While the weather is cooler and some services may be reduced, this period offers a tranquil experience of Greece at a fraction of the cost, appealing to travelers prioritizing budget and calm.
The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn strike an ideal balance. With pleasant weather and fewer crowds, these months provide an excellent opportunity to explore historical sites and natural landscapes without encountering the extreme prices or bustling throngs of summer. Strategic planning around these periods can align your travel dates with both your budget and preferred travel style.
Navigating Greece can be surprisingly affordable, especially with careful planning. Public transport in cities like Athens (metro, buses) is efficient and budget-friendly, while inter-island ferries, essential for island hopping, vary widely in cost depending on the route, speed, and time of year. Booking ferry tickets in advance, especially for high season, is often recommended.
Everyday expenses such as coffee, pastries, and simple snacks are generally reasonable, particularly when purchased from local bakeries or cafes away from major tourist hubs. Basic groceries for self-catering can also help manage your daily budget effectively, offering a more economical approach to meals.
Taxis are available but represent a more expensive transport option. Managing your daily budget involves making conscious choices, such as favoring local eateries and utilizing public transport or walking, allowing you to experience Greece authentically without overspending, with costs generally rising in peak summer months and popular tourist zones.
Delve into Greece's rich history by exploring the iconic Acropolis, home to the majestic Parthenon, and the sprawling Ancient Agora. The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer ideal conditions with pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, allowing for a more immersive experience. While entrance fees are notable, consider a multi-site ticket for better value, and allocate a full day to truly appreciate these foundational sites.
Experience the heart of Greek culture through its incredible food. Seek out traditional tavernas away from the main tourist hubs for truly authentic and budget-friendly meals. Enjoy local staples like moussaka, souvlaki, fresh salads, and local house wine. This experience is enjoyable year-round, offering a cozy retreat in winter or a lively outdoor setting in warmer months, providing excellent value for delicious, hearty portions.
While famous for bustling summers, the Cycladic islands like Naxos, Paros, or even less-frequented gems, truly shine during the shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October). Enjoy milder weather perfect for exploring charming villages and pristine beaches without the intense summer crowds and significantly higher prices for accommodation and ferries. It's an ideal time for hiking, photography, and experiencing a more tranquil island pace.
Embark on a journey to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site where ancient monasteries are dramatically perched atop towering rock formations. This awe-inspiring landscape is best visited in spring or autumn for comfortable hiking temperatures. Winter offers a unique, mystical experience with fewer visitors and a chance of snow-dusted cliffs, though it can be quite cold. Summer brings heat and crowds, making exploration more challenging.
During peak summer months, popular island ferry routes sell out fast. Book well in advance online. For budget travel, look for slower, conventional ferries which are often cheaper than high-speed ones and offer a more relaxed journey, especially if you're not in a rush.
Skip the main squares for dining and wander a few blocks into residential areas to find authentic tavernas. Look for places with handwritten menus or where locals are eating. Don't be shy to ask to see the kitchen (psistaria) to pick your fresh fish or prepared dishes.
Greece's culinary scene offers a delightful range of options to suit any budget. Budget-friendly street food, such as delicious gyros and souvlaki, provides incredibly satisfying and economical meals. Traditional tavernas are a cornerstone of Greek dining, serving hearty, authentic dishes at very reasonable prices, perfect for experiencing local flavors.
Mid-range restaurants are widely available, offering a balance of quality and cost. For those seeking more upscale dining experiences, major cities and popular islands boast fine dining establishments with prices comparable to other European capitals, which tend to be higher during peak tourist season.
Experiencing Greek culture doesn't always require a hefty budget. While many ancient sites and museums have entrance fees, exploring picturesque villages, local markets, and stunning beaches is often free. Look for combined tickets for historical attractions in cities like Athens to save money, allowing for rich cultural immersion without excessive expenditure.
Greece's allure is undeniable, but timing your visit is key to enjoying its beauty without the intense crowds and heat. The high season, primarily July and August, sees soaring temperatures and packed beaches, especially on popular islands, driving up prices for everything from flights to accommodation. While lively, this period can be overwhelming for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
For a more enjoyable and often more affordable trip, consider the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, ideal for sightseeing and hiking, and the tourist numbers are significantly lower. This allows for a more authentic engagement with local life and easier access to attractions. The sea is still warm enough for swimming in early autumn, making it a particularly appealing time.
The low season, typically January and February, offers mild weather and a quiet atmosphere, particularly on the mainland. Many island businesses close, but city breaks in Athens or Thessaloniki provide cultural depth and excellent value. While some services may be limited, travelers can experience Greece with fewer tourists and at significantly reduced costs.
Budgeting for a trip to Greece requires an understanding of its varied pricing landscape, which is heavily influenced by seasonality and location. Accommodation costs, for instance, can skyrocket during July and August in popular island destinations like Santorini and Mykonos, with even mid-range hotels becoming expensive. Conversely, you can find excellent deals on the mainland or during the off-season. Basic guesthouses and apartments offer more budget-friendly options compared to luxury resorts.
Dining out in Greece can range from very affordable to quite pricey. Street food like souvlaki and gyros can be enjoyed for a few euros, while a meal at a traditional taverna, including wine, typically costs around 15-30 euros per person. Upscale restaurants, especially in tourist hotspots, will naturally be more expensive. Local markets offer fresh produce and snacks, providing an economical way to experience Greek flavors. Keep an eye out for daily specials, often called 'magirefta', for delicious and value-for-money dishes.
Local transport varies across Greece. On the mainland, intercity buses are efficient and affordable, while island hopping relies on ferries, which can add up, especially for longer distances or high-speed services. Within cities, public transport is generally inexpensive. Taxis are widely available, but always confirm the price or ensure the meter is used. Car rental is a popular option for exploring regions at your own pace, with prices fluctuating based on demand and season. Everyday expenses like coffee, bottled water, and museum entry fees are generally reasonable, but like everything else, can be higher in prime tourist areas during peak season.
Greece offers a culinary journey as rich and diverse as its history. From the vibrant street food scene to the rustic charm of traditional tavernas, food is central to Greek culture. Indulge in iconic dishes like moussaka, pastitsio, and fresh seafood, often prepared with locally sourced ingredients and generous portions. Don't miss trying local specialties specific to each region or island, as culinary traditions vary significantly.
To truly experience the authentic taste of Greece, venture beyond the main tourist arteries. Seek out neighborhood tavernas where locals dine, often recognizable by their simple decor and bustling atmosphere. These establishments typically offer homemade dishes at more affordable prices and provide a genuine glimpse into Greek daily life. Engaging with the friendly staff can often lead to recommendations for the best seasonal dishes or local wines.
Beyond food, immerse yourself in cultural events. Look for local festivals, village celebrations, or traditional music and dance performances, especially during the spring and autumn months. Visiting local markets, taking a cooking class, or simply enjoying a leisurely coffee (frappé or freddo espresso) at a kafeneio are wonderful ways to connect with Greek traditions and create lasting memories that go beyond the typical tourist experience.
Immerse yourself in local life and save on dining expenses by exploring Greece's vibrant food markets, such as Athens' Varvakios Agora. Here, you can find fresh produce, olives, cheeses, and spices. Beyond the markets, savor delicious and incredibly affordable street food like gyros, souvlaki wraps, and koulouri (sesame bread rings). This is a fantastic year-round activity for experiencing everyday Greek culture and enjoying tasty, cheap eats.
While island hopping is a quintessential Greek experience, consider exploring the stunning islands during the shoulder seasons of spring or autumn. You'll enjoy equally beautiful weather, fewer tourists, and significantly better prices for accommodation and ferries compared to the packed and pricey summer months of July and August.
Experience the heart of Greek dining by sharing a spread of delicious meze (small plates) at a traditional taverna. This social and flavorful approach allows you to sample a variety of local specialties without committing to a single large meal, often proving to be a more budget-friendly and authentic culinary adventure.
Optimize your budget by relying on Greece's efficient public transport network. Utilize buses for inter-city travel and local ferries for island journeys instead of more expensive alternatives. Supplement your dining by visiting vibrant local markets for fresh, affordable produce, cheeses, and olives, perfect for picnics and snacks.
Immerse yourself in Greece's profound history by exploring the iconic Acropolis and its surrounding ancient sites like the Agora. To truly appreciate these wonders and avoid the sweltering heat and peak summer crowds, plan your visit for the early morning or late afternoon, especially during the pleasant spring or autumn months.
Seek out a traditional Greek village festival, known as a 'panigyri.' Often held to celebrate a saint, these lively events offer an authentic glimpse into local culture with music, dancing, and homemade food. They are most common in late spring, summer, and early autumn, providing a memorable and often free cultural experience away from the usual tourist trails.
While card payments are widespread, many smaller shops, remote tavernas, and even some taxi drivers, especially on less-visited islands or during off-peak season, prefer or only accept cash. Always carry smaller euro denominations for ease.
Coffee isn't just a drink, it's a social ritual. Take your time. When ordering a Greek coffee (elliniko), specify your sugar preference: sketo (no sugar), metrio (medium sugar), or glyko (sweet). A freddo espresso or cappuccino is perfect for summer.
Especially from airports or ports, always agree on the taxi fare with the driver before starting your journey, or ensure the meter is running. Some drivers might quote a higher fixed price for tourists, particularly during busy periods. Ride-sharing apps are also an option in larger cities.
For the best balance of weather, fewer crowds, and significantly better prices, target May-early June or September-October. Accommodation and flights are considerably cheaper than high summer, and you'll still enjoy pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and swimming.
For island exploration, book ferry tickets well in advance, particularly for popular routes and during peak summer months (July-August). Prices don't fluctuate as much as flights, but availability can disappear fast. Consider slower, cheaper conventional ferries over high-speed catamarans if you're not in a rush and want to save.
Skip the tourist-trap restaurants near main attractions. Seek out small, family-run tavernas (ταβέρνες), souvlaki (σουβλάκι) stands, or bakeries (φούρνος) for authentic, delicious, and significantly cheaper meals. Ask locals for their favourite spots – they rarely disappoint.
When visiting monasteries, churches, or other sacred sites, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Women might need to cover their heads in some monasteries. Carrying a light scarf or sarong is a practical way to ensure you're always prepared for entry.
While major cities and tourist hubs widely accept cards, many smaller tavernas, local shops, and rural establishments, especially on islands, operate primarily on cash. ATMs are available, but always have a stash of euros for small purchases, tips, and emergencies.
To maximize value and avoid peak crowds, plan your trip for the shoulder seasons (April-June or September-October). Accommodation and flight prices are considerably lower than in July-August, and the weather is still perfect for exploring or swimming, without the intense heat.
