Getting Euros for Your Trip to Greece

Greece remains one of the most popular summer destinations for British travellers, offering ancient history, stunning islands, delicious food, and warm hospitality. From the Acropolis in Athens to the sunsets of Santorini and the beaches of Crete, Greece has something for everyone.

As a Eurozone country, Greece uses the Euro. While card acceptance has improved significantly in recent years, Greece has traditionally been more cash-oriented than northern Europe. The key is understanding where cards work well and where you'll need cash.

Key insight for 2026: Major tourist destinations like Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos are now very card-friendly. However, smaller islands, traditional tavernas, and village shops often prefer cash. When island hopping, always ensure you have enough cash before leaving larger islands, as some small islands have limited or no ATMs.

Best Ways to Get Euros for Greece

1. Fee-free travel cards (Wise, Revolut) — Best overall. Pay by card where accepted and withdraw cash from ATMs when needed.
2. Greek bank ATMs — Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, and Eurobank ATMs don't charge foreign card fees. Use with a fee-free card.
3. Online currency order — Order Euros for delivery before you go. Better rates than high street.
4. Post Office / bureaux — Order online for better rates than walk-in.
5. Airport exchanges — Poor rates in UK or Athens. Use ATMs instead.

Using Cards in Greece

Where Cards Work Well

• Hotels and resorts — All accept cards
• Tourist restaurants — Especially in Athens and major islands
• Supermarkets — AB Vassilopoulos, Sklavenitis, Lidl
• Major attractions — Acropolis, museums, archaeological sites
• Chain stores — Modern shops and boutiques
• Beach clubs — Mykonos, Santorini beach bars

Where You'll Need Cash

• Traditional tavernas — Many family-run restaurants prefer cash
• Small islands — Some have limited card infrastructure
• Ferries — Some smaller routes are cash-only
• Local buses — Often require cash payment
• Markets and street vendors — Usually cash
• Beach umbrellas and sun beds — Often cash-only
• Tips — If you want to tip, cash is best

ATMs in Greece

Recommended Bank ATMs

• Alpha Bank — Red logo, widespread across Greece
• Piraeus Bank — Blue logo, good coverage
• Eurobank — Red logo, reliable
• National Bank of Greece — Good in Athens and mainland

ATMs to Avoid

• Euronet — Charges €3-5+ per withdrawal and offers poor rates
• Tourist area standalone ATMs — Often have hidden fees

Island hopping tip: Withdraw cash in Athens or larger islands before heading to smaller islands. Some small islands have only one ATM (or none), which may run out of cash in peak season.

Money Tips by Greek Region

Athens

Most card-friendly part of Greece. Restaurants in Plaka, Monastiraki, and tourist areas accept cards. Traditional tavernas in residential areas may prefer cash. ATMs are plentiful.

Santorini

Very tourist-oriented, so cards work widely. Oia and Fira have good infrastructure. Beach clubs and high-end restaurants all accept cards. Always have some cash backup.

Mykonos

Party island with modern infrastructure. Cards work at beach clubs, restaurants, and bars. Little Venice and town areas are card-friendly.

Crete

Largest island with mixed card acceptance. Tourist areas (Chania, Heraklion) are good for cards. Mountain villages and traditional tavernas prefer cash.

Smaller Islands (Milos, Naxos, Paros, etc.)

Card acceptance improving but cash still important. Check ATM locations before arriving. Some islands have only one or two ATMs which may run out of cash in August.

Rhodes & Kos

Good tourist infrastructure means cards work well in resorts and towns. Old Town areas may prefer cash for small purchases.

Tipping in Greece

• Restaurants — 5-10% is generous. Many Greeks simply round up.
• Cafes — No tip expected, maybe loose change
• Taxis — No tip expected but rounding up is appreciated
• Hotels — €1-2 for porters
• Tour guides — €5-10 for a good tour

Tipping isn't as expected as in the US. Good service is the norm, and a smile and "efharisto" (thank you) goes a long way.