Greece Travel Budget - Visit Greece on a Budget or Travel in Style


Greece is a very popular destination famed for the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, the Acropolis in Athens, and the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion, and this travel cost guide will help you plan the perfect trip without overspending. We've broken down average costs from past travelers, including where to stay, what to eat, and what to see, so that your trip is both affordable and unforgettable. So, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine in Mykonos, taking in the beauty of Santorini, or scuba diving around Kos, you'll be able to plan your perfect trip, all while staying within budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Greece?

You should plan to spend around $226 (€216) per day on your vacation in Greece. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $85 (€81) on meals
  • $39 (€37) on local transportation
  • $180 (€172) on hotels

A one week trip to Greece for two people costs, on average, $3,164 (€3,024). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $226
    216
  • One Week Per person
    $1,582
    1,512
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,164
    3,024
  • One Month Per person
    $6,780
    6,480
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,164
    3,024
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $6,328
    6,048
  • One Month For a couple
    $13,561
    12,960
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Greece cost?

A one week trip to Greece usually costs around $1,582 (€1,512) for one person and $3,164 (€3,024) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Greece on average costs around $3,164 (€3,024) for one person and $6,328 (€6,048) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Greece will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Greece on average costs around $6,780 (€6,480) for one person and $13,561 (€12,960) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in Greece?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Greece is $247 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is Greece expensive to visit?

Greece is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Greece is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Denmark or Iceland.

Whether you're looking for luxury or traveling on a budget, Greece has an array of accommodation and activities to suit your needs. For those on a budget, hostels in Athens, Santorini, and Chania are available, but there are also luxury hotels for affluent visitors, and plenty of mid-range hotels for families and couples.

If you're worried about costs in Greece, there are ways to cut back, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.

On average, budget travelers spend $89 (€86) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $223 (€216) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $552 (€535) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Greece.

For more details, see Is Greece Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Greece?

The average Greece trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Greece travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Greece cost?

Greece on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$35
(34)
$90
(86)
$234
(224)
Local Transportation 1 $16
(15)
$39
(37)
$95
(91)
Food 2 $35
(33)
$85
(81)
$199
(191)
Entertainment 1 $12
(12)
$31
(29)
$74
(70)
Alcohol 2 $5-14
(4-13)
$11-33
(11-32)
$26-78
(25-75)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Corfu, Greece Corfu, Greece

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations about your travel budget is very important. While it's easy to think of yourself as a "budget" traveler who can see everything on a shoestring, most find this style of travel quite challenging. Think about what you truly enjoy and your previous travel experiences. Are you drawn to resorts and vacation rentals, or do you like the budget-friendly environment of hostels? How important is it for you to eat in nicer restaurants? The answers to these questions will influence your overall travel budget.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You may have heard that it's possible to visit Greece for around $89 a day, but if you want to maintain any level of comfort, you should be ready to spend considerably more.

While budget travelers might manage to travel on that amount, it often means staying in hostel dormitories, eating at budget restaurants or fast food joints, using public transport or walking, and sticking to free attractions.

Fortunately, Greece has an abundance of hostels, particularly in Athens, Santorini, and Chania. While food is a big draw for everyone visiting Greece, budget travelers often rely on street food or cooking in their hostels, so they may not get to fully experience the local cuisine due to their budget.

Are You Considered an Average Traveler?

For couples or families traveling for fun, it's common to stay in mid-range hotels, dine at well-known restaurants, and visit the big museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors are not going to want to miss the traditional windmills near Chora in Mykonos, the Venetian Harbor in Chania, or the Palace of Knossos in Heraklion. As most activities are not free, you'll be spending at least some money on your trip. Given this, a more realistic daily budget would be around $223 per person, per day.

In Greece, you'll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to suit your needs. If you're traveling with a partner, friends, or your kids, then hotel costs will be divided, making it easier on your budget. Family-friendly destinations like Corfu and Athens offer hotels and restaurants with options tailored for kids. Some good places to stay are Olga Central Greece in Central Greece or Kokkini Porta Rossa in Rhodes. If you're seeking romance in Epirus, Archontiko Metsovou Boutique Hotel is an ideal place for couples to stay. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for Greece here.

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're seeking a deluxe vacation that includes premium service and amenities, expect to pay around $552. This budget will cover luxurious hotels, award-winning dining, extravagant tours, and private transportation, landing you in the "luxury" travel range. You might even find yourself vacationing in high-end spots like Skiathos and Zakynthos. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as Splendid off-season tour in Greece: UNESCO sites and other beautiful destinations on a 19-days tour from Athens - offered by Monterrasol Travel.

Accommodation Budget in Greece

The range of hotel prices in Greece can be quite surprising, especially when you compare budget-friendly and luxury hotels. Peak season brings much higher prices, so consider traveling in the off-season for a more affordable experience. Booking in advance can also help with savings.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Greece for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $180 (€172). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $90 (€86) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $90
    86
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $180
    172

Hotels in Greece

Looking for a hotel in Greece? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Greece

The average hotel room price in Greece based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $86 in the low season and $160 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Athens
As one of the more popular destinations, Athens offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $38 in the low season to $256 during the busy peak season. With many travelers lingering for up to seven days, you should prioritize finding a comfortable stay in a favorable location if you plan to explore the area. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Acropolis Exclusive Residence for $186 and Ava Hotel and Suites starting at $194. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $17 for a dorm bed.

Santorini
In Santorini, which is a terrific island, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $69 in the low season to $621 during the peak season. The Tsitouras Collection ($278) is one of the best hotel options here, and Angel Luxury Suites is also good, and starts at $195. You can expect to pay around $33 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. As many travelers typically stay for up to seven days, ensure you find a cozy place in a good spot if you intend to explore for a while.

Mykonos
Mykonos is a terrific Greek island that is one of the top tourist destinations in Greece. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Mykonos, the average hotel price is $169 in the low season and $315 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $331 to $617. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $35 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Lithos by Spyros & Flora for $130 and Bluetopia Suites starting at $186. Since travelers often stay up to five days, it's essential to look for a comfortable lodging option in a desirable location if you plan to explore for a bit.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in Greece

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $39 (€37) per person, per day, on local transportation in Greece. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Greece is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $39
    37
Local Transportation Tips

In Greece, the train system is excellent, allowing you to connect to nearly all regions of the country. The ticket prices are reasonable, and the rides are both comfortable and swift. If trains don't reach your destination, regional and long-distance buses can help.

If you're in Greece, you'll find that public transportation in many destinations is quite limited unless you're visiting cities such as Athens. It's probably a good idea to rent a car or organize some form of transportation ahead of time, like a tour. However, this could reduce your overall trip budget.

If you're considering a visit to the countryside, you'll want to rent a car. Note that in Europe, most cars feature a manual transmission, and if you prefer an automatic, you might have to pay a premium. It's important to book ahead of time, as the lower-priced rentals tend to go quickly.

When you have a car in one of the bigger cities, make sure to check with your hotel about their parking situation in advance. You might have to pay for parking at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. Sometimes, it's more economical to park your car a bit outside of town.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for transit in Greece are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Greece. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.


  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13
  • Taxi from Airport
    35
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Cable Car
    8.00
  • Taxi Ride
    7.00
  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Metro
    1.50


Food Budget in Greece

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Greece can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Greece is $85 (€81) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $85
    81

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Greece is around $84 (€81) per person, with previous travelers spending from $34 to $197. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Greece are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $15 to $25
  • Lunch: $13 to $42
  • Dinner: $29 to $67
  • Coffee: $8
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $13

Greek food is the epitome of Mediterranean cuisine. It focuses on fresh fruits and vegetables with lamb or seafood as the main protein items. It's heavily influenced by both Turkey and Italy, but the cuisine is still uniquely authentic. The food you find in Greece is dramatically different than what you might find at most Greek restaurants abroad. In Greece, gyros are little more than a fast food option. Dishes are prepared with care and the ingredients are always of the freshest and highest quality.

Meze: This is a traditional Greek dining style that usually includes a series of small dishes that are similar to Spanish tapas. Dishes are served either hot or cold. Popular options include octopus dishes, small salads, cheese plates, or fried sausage. Dishes are usually accompanied by kalamata olives, sliced, hard boiled eggs, or garlic bread.

Spanakopita: This is a spinach pie that is made from phyllo pastry and filled with a spinach and feta cheese mixture. The dish is sometimes made with the more affordable ricotta cheese. It can be prepared as either a large dish or small, individual sized pastries (recipe).

Souvlaki: This is a traditional Greek fast food that is made with meat and vegetables that are grilled on skewers. It is most often made with lamb meat and can be served on skewers, as a pita sandwich, or as the main course of a dinner meal. At dinner it is typically served with potatoes. A more affordable option is to get souvlaki, which is made with pork instead of lamb.

Popular Culinary Destinations

Greece is an extremely popular culinary destination, and the cuisine is enjoyed around the world. Many visitors come just for the food. Some of the best foodie cities include Mykonos, Athens, and Chania.

Mykonos
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Mykonos. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

Athens
Athens is one of the best culinary destinations in Greece. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Chania
One of the best culinary spots in Greece is Chania. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

Corfu
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Corfu. The island's local dishes are heavily influenced by the surrounding areas. You'll find similarities to Greek and Venetian dishes as well France and Mediterranean flavors. Common ingredients include wine, garlic, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice and several traditional dishes that you should try include pastitsado (red wine stew), sofrito (garlic seasoned beef), and veal fricando (roasted veal).

Paros
Paros is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

Food & Dining Tips

In the larger cities such as Athens, Chania, or Heraklion, you can save money if you eat at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner. Many restaurants in the tourist areas or business centers offer lunch specials which are just smaller and cheaper versions of their dinner menus. You can sometimes get a full multi-course gourmet meal at a budget price if you look in the right places. Then, just eat a light meal at dinner.

If you're staying in a popular resort area, such as Mykonos, Santorini, or Corfu, the resorts will sometimes offer a variety of food options, and it's important to know the details to understand the prices. Some resorts offer full board, which includes every meal, while some offer half board, which is only two meals. Others might have on-site restaurants that may or may not be included in the price. Also, drinks are sometimes included, but not always. Check with the resort beforehand so that you know which meals and drinks you might need to pay for.

If you're spending a week or more in Mykonos, Santorini, or Athens, it's worth considering an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen for families or groups. This way, you can cook meals with budget-friendly groceries instead of constantly dining out.

When dining out with children, look for eateries that have a childrens' menu. It can save you a lot of money since these meals are typically more affordable. Some restaurants might not show the kids' options on the menu, so don't hesitate to ask your waiter first.

Many hotels come with breakfast included in the price, but some add it as an extra fee. The quality and cost of breakfast can change depending on the hotel. Knowing what to expect can assist you in deciding whether the hotel buffet is a worthwhile expense or if a nearby bakery or café would be a better choice.

Make sure to carry a water bottle instead of buying drinks at every opportunity. It's also a great way to help the environment.

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Greece. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Athens Greek Cooking Class Pita Gyros from Scratch with a Local for $116 details
  • Savor Nafplio Cooking Class for $121 details
  • Corfood bites - Cooking classes by Christos for $106 details
  • Athens Cooking Class and Lunch in our beautiful garden in Greece for $104 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Listed below are typical food prices in Greece, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.


  • Souvlaki
    2.20
  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • Coffee
    1.95
  • Dinner for Two
    23
  • Dinner for Two
    20
  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Greece

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Greece typically cost an average of $31 (€29) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $31
    29
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

As a very popular travel destination, Greece allows many visitors to tick off several items from their bucket lists. Notable places to explore in Greece are Delphi, Mykonos, and Santorini.

Delphi
Delphi is a famous archeological site as well as a modern town. The archeological site is one of the most popular and impressive in Greece. The ruins include the Temple to Apollo as well as an Ancient Stadium and an Ancient Theatre.

Mykonos
Mykonos is one of the most lively of the Greek Isles and its popular for its active nightlife scene. The beaches are beautiful and filled with bars and A list celebrities. You'll find world famous DJs and all night parties. During the day, the villages are charming with windmills and scenic viewpoints.

Santorini
Santorini is one of the most popular Greek Isles for tourists and it has a long running history dating back centuries. The island has beautiful volcanic beaches and a stunning natural landscape. It is a popular destination for honeymooners and travelers who are seeking the beauty of the Mediterranean.

Athens
Athens is the capital city of Greece and it is a world class travel destination. It's filled with ancient historical landmarks and an amazing culture. The city's food and welcoming atmosphere make it one of the most fascinating and fun places to explore.

Chania
Chania is a city that has it all. It's located on the island of Crete and is home to a charming old town, a classic Venetian harbor, and many authentic local restaurants. There are also museums and archeological sites as well as beautiful beaches that are not far from town.

Sightseeing Tips

Some of the most picturesque locations in Greece include Mykonos, Santorini, and Corfu. These incredibly beautiful destinations will create lasting memories, so don't forget to include them on your itinerary.

In Greece, you'll find countless beach getaways that draw crowds when the weather is nice. People come to unwind and enjoy the many fun activities. Among the top beaches are those around Chania, Corfu, and Paros.

Around the country, you'll find plenty of amazing hiking trails with breathtaking vistas, unspoiled beauty, and opportunities for healthy exercise. A few of the best areas for hiking are around Corfu, Rhodes, and Chania.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Greece. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Private Tailormade Tour in Santorini Island with Local Driver for $102 details
  • Half Day Private Tour Island with a Local in Mykonos for $164 details
  • Best Of Santorini Private Customizable Tour for $222 details
  • Mykonos Private Island Tour for $164 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Greece

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $22 (€21) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Greece per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $22
    21
Popular Nightlife Destinations

Greece is a highly sought-after spot for nightlife, drawing visitors from across the globe to enjoy its vibrant scene. Some of the top nightlife destinations are Mykonos, Athens, and Ios.

Mykonos
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Mykonos. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

Athens
Athens is one of the best nightlife destinations in Greece. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

Ios
Visitors love the nightlife in Ios. This is one of the quintessential party islands in Greece. Many young backpackers come here just to party, particularly during the summer months. You'll find many parties start around midnight or later and carry on well into the morning. Most of the clubs and bars are around the main square and nearby streets in Chora, but there are also clubs spread throughout the town. Outside of town, Mylopotas Beach is another popular party area.

Heraklion
The nightlife in Heraklion is quite popular. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

Thessaloniki
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Thessaloniki. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

Nightlife Tips

Enjoying the nightlife is always fun, but if you cut down on alcohol, you'll see a noticeable difference in your travel costs.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Greece. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Heraklion SUV Private Guided Wine Tour with Lunch for $210 details
  • Citron Tasting and Distillery 1-Hour Guided Tour in Naxos for $64 details
  • Santorini 4-Hour Private Tour including Wine Tasting, Shore Excursion for $169 details
  • Private Santorini Daytime Wine Tour for $285 details

Recommended


Travel Costs Last Updated: Dec 21, 2024
The castle walls of Rhodes, Greece The castle walls of Rhodes, Greece

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • The peak season in Greece is in the summer when it's buzzing with tourists, and with the surge in visitors comes an increase in prices. Hotels fill up fast, and finding affordable accommodation can be a bit of a challenge. If you want to keep things budget-friendly, visiting during the shoulder or low seasons is a great way to avoid the crowds and save some money.
  • Locations like Delphi, Mykonos, and Santorini are particularly popular with tourists, which means you should anticipate larger crowds and higher costs during peak times. Expect to encounter busy attractions with lengthy lines, sold-out tickets, and increased prices. In all areas, especially these popular destinations, try to make your reservations well in advance, ideally several months ahead.
  • Some destinations see visitors staying for longer periods of time. In places such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Athens, it's common for people to stay for a week or so while they enjoy their vacation. Many families also travel with kids, so staying at an apartment or vacation rental is a great option for saving money. You'll enjoy a more comfortable space, perhaps with a kitchen and other amenities.
  • This country is a hotspot for backpackers and young travelers on a budget. If that sounds like you, there are plenty of hostels and affordable or free activities waiting to be explored. If you're looking to connect with like-minded adventurers, Athens, Ios, and Chania are fantastic choices where you can find hostels or low cost hotels, meet other travelers, and have a blast.
  • Many couples love heading to Greece for a fun or laid-back honeymoon. Maybe you're looking for a romantic retreat or just a thrilling weekend adventure. Whatever your vibe, this country offers countless fantastic places to discover with your partner. Some of the most romantic locations include Mykonos, Santorini, and Corfu.
  • Many visitors seek out a restful vacation at a resort. They enjoy the simplicity of not having to plan their trip or travel between destinations. Luxurious resorts provide a mix of serene lodging, engaging activities, and fantastic food. If you desire a calming location where you can indulge yourself stylishly, make your way to Mykonos, Santorini, or Corfu. This is where you'll find some of the best resorts in Greece.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Scuba diving spots around Kos, Mykonos, and Corfu are very popular, but this activity comes at a cost. Expenses like dive trips, equipment rentals, and boat tours can take a significant bite out of your budget. It's also important to confirm your travel insurance covers any potential accidents.
  • Greece is a large country with a lot to see, so you can either spend more time visiting many different areas, or spend less time concentrating on one smaller region. If you try to see everything in a shorter trip, you'll spend significantly more money on long-distance transportation. The faster you move and the further you travel during your trip, the more money you'll spend due to these increased transportation costs.
  • If you have young children with you, using a private car or taking a taxi/Uber can make things smoother than dealing with public transport. That said, it does come at a higher cost.

Chania, Greece Chania, Greece
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Greece.

Why would you recommend Greece to budget travelers? Or, why not?

The first time we went to Greece was years ago. It was really cheap back then. It's amazing how expensive it's gotten. Now it feels like there are few ways to travel around Greece on a budget.

JLong_4
-
Apr 27 2024

We ferry hopped through several of the islands. Places like Santorini and Mykonos were expensive but Crete was reasonably cheap.

out_of_office
-
Dec 2 2023

We've visited different parts of Greece and have loved almost every place we've been. Athens has so much culture and history. It's also very cheap. Some of the Greek islands are more expensive, but the less touristy ones and much more affordable.

Charles
-
Jun 8 2023

What makes Greece a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

It's budget-friendly depending on the island you choose. Avoid the more popular, honeymoon destinations and you'll be able to save a lot of money.

Sophia
-
Feb 7 2024
Traveling in Greece
Greece Ios, Greece

Greece, located in southern Europe at the tip of the Balkan peninsula, is a country that continues to gain popularity as a top travel destination in Europe. It is at the center of one of the most influential civilizations in history and it's philosophy, art, sports, and language have infiltrated our lives today. From the modern Olympic games, to the words we speak and the politics that dictate our lives, Greece has had an impact on everything we do. Not only is it of historical significance, but it is also geographically appealing with it's Mediterranean climate, gorgeous beaches, picturesque islands, and mountainous center. This country has something to offer any traveler and its diversity makes it the perfect destination.

Travelers arrive here on boat, plane, or by train. The Greek Isles can be navigated by ferry, but many tourists choose to take a cruise through this beautiful area. Athens is probably the country's most chaotic city, but it also offers some of the most impressive glimpses at the area's history, culture, and cuisine. However you choose to visit the area, you're likely to be mesmerized by its beautiful landscape, fresh foods, and strong willed people.

Greece was once thought of as a budget travel destination in Europe. This is no longer the case, and you can expect to spend prices comparable to elsewhere in Europe. If you avoid the more touristy destinations, particularly those in the Greek Isles, you will find better deals and be able to keep your travel costs down. Food prices can vary dramatically as well. Head a few blocks away from the central plazas and major tourist crowds. You'll find smaller, locally owned restaurants that have more reasonably priced menus. If you're hoping to buy some souvenirs, go shopping when cruise ships are not in dock. Prices will drop dramatically when it isn't thought that you just arrived on a cruise ship.

The cheapest transportation option in this country is usually the bus (on the mainland, naturally). Bus routes are generally efficient and frequent. The train may be slower and more expensive, but if you're looking for comfort, this is your better option.

At A Glance
  • Greece is one of the twenty most touristy countries in thew world and is visited by about 17 million people every year, most of whom come from Europe. It's also most visited during the high season which is between April and October. To avoid these crowds consider coming during the winter months when costs are lower and crowds are thinner.

  • When this page was last updated all of Greece's international trains had been suspended due to the country's deteriorating economic situation. Check for updated information on government websites to confirm the situation before you begin your trip.

  • Greece is well connected to its nearby neighbors by a system of international ferries. Some of the most popular ports include Venice, Marmaris, Haifa, and Alexandria. This is a fun, but expensive way to explore the region. Compare prices as there are several different companies that run some of the routes. Consider the speed of travel and the class of ticket before making a purchase to make sure you get the most bang for your buck. Most people end up flying or taking the bus because sometimes the ferries can be expensive. However, once in the country of Greece, the ferries can be a great way to get around the islands fairly inexpensively.

  • Many people put a lot of thought into whether they should rent a car. It is advantageous if you're hoping to visit a large number of rural towns that are served by only one or two buses a day. If you are staying in more frequented areas, then a car is more of a disadvantage as it can be expensive, is a hassle, and traffic accidents are not uncommon. (The best car rental rates can be found here.)

  • Taxis can be difficult to hail, particularly in Athens during rush hour. If you're getting desperate, a good option is to walk to the nearest hotel and have them flag down a taxi for you. This will help ensure you get a driver who is willing to go to your chosen destination.

  • For information on what to bring to Greece, check out this great Europe Packing List.
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Top Tourist Attractions

The Temple of Poseidon: Located at Cape Sounion, this temple is dedicated to Poseidon and was built in 444BC. While the temple itself is very impressive, don't skip out on enjoying the amazing views of the city from the top of the hill.

Nafplio: A lovely town that, while touristy, has managed to hold on to its charm. It's also conveniently located just a couple hours ride from Athens, making it a nice day or weekend trip.

Hydra: Although close to Athens, this island gives you a glimpse into island life in Greece without the challenges of traveling to the Greek Isles. More info on getting to Hydra can be found in our guide to Athens.



We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.