Should I get euros before going to Greece?

Greece uses the euro as its currency, and businesses only accept Euros for payment. It's a good idea to carry some Greece currency for cash transactions, especially in remote areas. The best way to get euros in Greece is via an ATM or to exchange American dollars for euros before arriving.



People Also Ask

If you are exchanging at a brick-and-mortar bank, costs will be high regardless of if it is at home or in Greece due to poor exchange rates and high fees. Instead, we generally recommend you use your debit card or multi-currency account debit card at a local ATM in Greece to withdraw the local currency.

MORE DETAILS

You can get better rates by ordering foreign currency from your local bank or credit union before you start your trip. Correct! Banks and credit unions generally offer the best exchange rates, and many won't charge extra fees to exchange currency. Remember to order the foreign currency before you start your trip.

MORE DETAILS

Plastic money is widely accepted in Greece, and the exchange rates are rather favorable. Still, it would be best if you carried some cash, as many street vendors, artists, and small cafes only accept cash, while also cash is the preferred method of tipping in Greece.

MORE DETAILS

Does Greece Accept U.S. Dollars? Establishments in Greece do not accept U.S. dollars as a form of payment. You will need Greek currency for cash transactions in Greece. In places that do accept physical U.S. dollars, such as hotels, using them may result in very unfavorable exchange rates or additional fees.

MORE DETAILS

The best way to get Euros in Greece is via an ATM or to exchange American dollars for Euros before you arrive. The exchange rate is more favorable, and the process is more convenient.

MORE DETAILS

Tip in the local currency Whenever you tip during your trip to Greece it is important to use the local currency, that is - Euros. Otherwise you'll leave your service providers with cash they can't use without paying high fees on currency exchange.

MORE DETAILS

Currency exchange shops and kiosks in airports are not the best places to exchange money. For the best rates, try a local bank or a bank ATM to make your currency exchanges. Check to see if your U.S. bank offers foreign ATM fee refunds for using a foreign ATM. Not all currency exchanges charge the same rate.

MORE DETAILS

Its stunning beaches and unique islands makes a vacation to Greece a trip to paradise. Though Greece has a cash-preferred economy, credit and debit cards are accepted as well. A credit card that saves on foreign transaction fees is a good card to bring along.

MORE DETAILS

Once you've reached your destination, avoid airport kiosks or other exchange houses. Your bank's ATM network is likely the best option. You may be able to withdraw cash in the local currency with competitive exchange rates and low fees (1% to 3%). Use your institution's app to find an ATM near you.

MORE DETAILS

Purses and Totes There are two bags you should bring for a summer trip to Greece: a small purse and a tote. Your purse should be small, light, and easy to carry, preferably with a crossbody strap.

MORE DETAILS

The best way to get euros in Greece is via an ATM or to exchange American dollars for euros before arriving. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Greece, but it's important to be cautious of bank fees and to confirm that a business accepts cards before ordering.

MORE DETAILS

The most widely accepted cards are MasterCard and VISA. You might have some trouble using a Diners Club or American Express credit card in certain places, as these mean a higher commission for local businesses. According to local legislation, in order to use a credit card, you'll have to have a chip-and-PIN card.

MORE DETAILS

Budget-Friendly Travel Planning Past travelers have spent, on average, €40 ($43) on meals for one day and €30 ($32) on local transportation. Also, the average hotel price in Greece for a couple is €148 ($159). So, a trip to Greece for two people for one week costs on average €2,173 ($2,330).

MORE DETAILS

There is not a strong tradition of tipping in Greece, particularly among the locals, but it's become expected that tourists leave a small tip while travelling through the country. In restaurants it's common to leave a cash tip for whoever is looking after you – 10–15 per cent is standard.

MORE DETAILS

European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way. If you need cash from an ATM, it's usually better to use a debit card, because credit cards often charge a high interest rate for a cash advance.

MORE DETAILS